The Minnesota Senate’s committee on State Government on Wednesday approved a bill to ensure that the legislature has sole authority to distribute federal coronavirus assistance. 

“The constitution is explicit that the legislature is the branch of government that handles the purse strings,” said Sen. Julie Rosen (R-Fairmont). “This legislation would restore accountability, transparency, and public input over the process of distributing Covid aid.”

Gov. Walz has thus far distributed all federal coronavirus assistance unilaterally, without the input or approval of the legislative branch. According to Article 11, Section 1 of the state’s constitution, “No money shall be paid out of the treasury of this state except in pursuance of an appropriation by law.”