On Monday, State legislative leaders and Governor Tim Walz announced a framework for a bipartisan budget agreement that doesn’t raise taxes on Minnesotans and limits the Governor’s ability to spend the federal funds received due to COVID. The deal includes a significant tax relief proposal that will include full tax relief for forgivable Paycheck Protection Program loans and pandemic unemployment benefits.

“Senate Republicans have secured a budget agreement that will fund Minnesota Priorities,  balance the budget without raising taxes, and put our state on a path to recover from COVID,” Senator Mark Koran (R-North Branch) said. We will continue to fight for you and to support Minnesota families and communities across the state.”

The agreement gives lawmakers in the key conference committees until June 4 to wrap up spending priorities and policy provisions, with a special session to pass the final bills to occur around June 14. During that time Senate Republicans will continue to advocate for Minnesota Priorities, including education, transportation, and healthcare, while pushing for investments in public safety and the end of Governor Walz’s remaining emergency powers.