Newman: Jobs and Economic Growth budget prioritizes stability—provides business and economic recovery for all of Minnesota

The Minnesota Senate today with overwhelming bipartisan support passed the Jobs and Economic Growth bill. The bill prioritizes business and economic recovery for all of Minnesota, while offering economic stability without adding any burdens or regulations that would hinder recovery efforts. Senate File 9 focuses on economic recovery; workforce training and business development services; and addresses the shortage of childcare in many communities.   

“The governor’s unilateral and arbitrary business closures have been a disaster for small businesses and workers across the state,” said Senator Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson). “Minnesotans are resilient, but they need a government working with them instead of against them. This bill puts our state, including the entrepreneurs and workers who are the backbone of our economy, back in a great position for long-term success.”

The bill also includes a $70 million investment in broadband development. The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of expanding broadband into underserved and unserved communities. This investment will help close those gaps.

Key provisions in the bill include the following:

  • Provides key investments in the state’s growing workforce
  • Creation of the Main Street Economic Revitalization Program and the Main Street COVID19 Relief programs to assist businesses statewide faced with financial hardship
  • Expands options for individuals to receive Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits while simultaneously receiving workforce training services
  • Expansion of workplace accommodations for pregnant and nursing mothers  
  • Removal of provision that makes high school students ineligible for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits
  • Inclusion of the crucial “Wedding Barn Bill” to ensure smaller venues are not forced to take on massive financial investments to install sprinklers

Notably, this bill does NOT include any burdensome mandates, expensive new programs, or excessive regulations on businesses. The legislation now heads to the House for a final vote, before heading to the Governor for a final signature.