SHOOTING DEATH OF AMIR LOCKE

Minnesota finds itself at the center of another controversial death at the hands of Minneapolis police following the shooting death of 22-year old Amir Locke. Using a no-knock warrant, police shot Mr. Locke within seconds of entering the apartment where he was sleeping. The event has led to renewed efforts to either ban or significantly limit the use of no-knock warrants. Legislation was introduced this week that adds another dimension to an already robust discussion regarding public safety reforms.

INFLUX OF BROADBAND FUNDS

This week, the House Capital Investment committee heard presentations regarding both state and federal broadband investments. Minnesota is expected to receive $103 million in broadband funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Prior to the funds being distributed, the federal government will be updating maps that show existing broadband coverage. While some have advocated for state bonds to fund broadband infrastructure, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) has determined that it isn’t an eligible use of bond funds.

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE / HERO PAY

Just a week into session, the Legislature started advancing legislation on two top-tier issues. Committees heard bills to replenish—at least in part—the unemployment insurance trust fund and to provide bonus pay to essential workers who continued in-person working through the pandemic. While both the House and Senate have stated these are priority issues, at this point they continue to advance their own versions of the legislation and have yet to find agreement.

COMMITTEES IN FULL SWING

In addition to the issues highlighted above, the Legislature held dozens of hearings this week. Many hearings were broader themed overviews and updates, but some committees have started hearing and advancing specific legislation. With just six weeks until the first committee deadline, expect the pace of hearings on bills to increase as overviews taper off.

ST. PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS LIFT “VACCINE OR TEST” MANDATES

Following pressure from businesses, falling COVID case counts, and days of rumors, both Minneapolis and St. Paul announced on Thursday that they were dropping the requirements put in place last month that required patrons at establishments serving food and drink to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. Establishments may still independently impose such a rule for patrons if they choose, but it is no longer required by either City.