On Friday, March 28, Senate Democrats released their budget targets for the 2025 legislative session, which outline spending increases and cuts across various state programs. It includes reductions in health and human services, education, environment, energy, and transportation. Meanwhile, it increases funding for jobs, higher education, and public safety.

“Minnesota is facing serious financial challenges due to the overspending of past legislatures and the governor,” Senator Bill Weber (R-Luverne) said. “I am committed to protecting funding for our schools and local governments to the best of my ability. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats are joining Governor Walz in cutting essential services to vulnerable Minnesotans, including people with disabilities. Balancing the budget should never come at the expense of our most vulnerable.”

The proposal notably includes more than $1.3 billion in cuts to health and human services over the next four years. Their second-largest budget reduction, totaling $735 million, is in their taxes target. This means that Senate Democrats will have to decide to either raise taxes or cut crucial aid, like the Child Tax Credit. The targets also set the stage for up to $687 million in education cuts during the 2028-2029 budget cycle. 

In response to the looming $6 billion deficit, Senate Republicans identified at least $600 million in wasteful or unnecessary spending in the state budget. Republicans emphasized that these funds could be better used to support essential services and reduce the financial burden on Minnesota families.

The Minnesota Legislature is constitutionally required to adjourn by May 19, 2025, and a state budget must be passed before June 30, 2025.