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Friday, March 15, 2024


weekly briefing

Governor Walz Welcomes Vice President Kamala Harris to Minnesota


Governor Walz greets Vice President Harris at Planned Parenthood in Saint Paul

On Thursday, Governor Walz visited Planned Parenthood in Saint Paul as part of Vice President Harris' Fight for Reproductive Freedom Tour. The event marked the first time a sitting President or Vice President has visited a clinic that provides abortion services. 

"Here in Minnesota, we trust people to make their own decision about their own bodies. But the fight’s not over until we secure that right for every American," said Governor Walz. "We stand with the Biden-Harris Administration in fighting back against nationwide attacks on reproductive freedom."

"While access to abortion and reproductive health care is protected in Minnesota, there’s work ahead to restore the protections of Roe in many other states," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "Proud to join the Biden-Harris Administration in the fight to protect reproductive freedom for all."

Vice President Harris delivers remarks to press at Planned Parenthood in Saint Paul

Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan Attend Ceremony for Transfer of Land Back to the Upper Sioux Community


Lieutenant Governor Flanagan speaks at the Upper Sioux Community

On Friday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan joined Tribal officials to enact the official transfer of the state-owned land that was within the boundaries of Upper Sioux Agency State Park to the Upper Sioux Community.

"After years of work, I’m grateful to mark the official return of this land to the Yellow Medicine Dakota People," said Governor Walz. "In 2019, Chairman Kevin Jensvold shared with me the history and significance of this land to the Yellow Medicine People. Together as partners — Tribal, state, and federal — we worked to return the land to its original caretakers. This isn’t us doing the right thing, we are simply undoing the wrong thing."

"Today is a historic and powerful day for the Yellow Medicine Oyate and the State of Minnesota," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "It was an honor to be invited by the Yellow Medicine Community to be present during this historic moment, but this didn’t just happen overnight. The Governor was the first Governor to visit the Yellow Medicine Community since former Governor Sibley led a war party to them. The Governor and I are committed to continuing our strong partnerships with Tribal governments. We have been working towards this day with Chairman Jensvold since we took office. I am proud to stand with the Governor at Pezihutazizi Kapi Makoce (Land Where They Dig the Yellow Medicine) to witness this historic event."

Lieutenant Governor Flanagan and Governor Walz greet attendees at the Upper Sioux land transfer ceremony

Governor Walz Highlights Support for Small Businesses During Unusually Warm Winter


Governor Walz speaks to a business owner who has been affected by Minnesota's lack of snow this winter

On Monday, Governor Walz encouraged small businesses to apply for federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans through the Small Business Association. From December to February, Minnesota experienced the warmest meteorological winter on record.

"Snowy winters are essential to the success of our winter tourism and outdoor recreation industries. They are also the means in which many Minnesotans make a living," said Governor Walz. "As we navigate what will likely be a future of unpredictable winters due to climate change, disaster assistance for businesses affected by the lack of snow this winter is now available."

"Whether it’s snow plowing or outdoor recreation, small businesses across Minnesota rely on snowy winters to provide for their employees and for their families. Luckily, we’ve got some help on the way with assistance for affected businesses." said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.

Governor Walz speaks to press at Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Governor Walz Announces Meta Will Build New Data Center in Rosemount


Governor Walz poses for a picture with Meta leadership

On Thursday, Governor Walz announced that Meta will build an $800 million, 715,000-square-foot data center in Rosemount, supporting approximately 100 operational jobs and at least 1,000 skilled trade jobs at peak construction.

"Minnesota is excited to welcome Meta to Rosemount – a win for our state that will bring dozens of jobs and invigorate the local economy," said Governor Walz. "Today’s announcement is a testament to our commitment to making Minnesota a top state for business, innovation, and investment in our workforce."

Governor Walz speaks to press at Meta's new data cetner in Rosemount

Governor Walz Announces Minnesota’s Roads Ranked Best in Nation


On Friday, Governor Walz announced that Minnesota’s roads were ranked the best in the nation by a Consumer Affairs analysis. Minnesota’s ranking is based on the most recent available data from the U.S. Department of Transportation on road safety and quality, miles traveled, and spending on road improvements.

"This achievement didn’t happen by accident – it reflects our yearslong commitment to improving the safety and quality of our roads," said Governor Walz. "In Minnesota, we take pride in maintaining the infrastructure that builds strong communities, creates jobs, and drives economic growth."


Social Media Posts of the Week


Governor Walz shares that 4.3 million more breakfasts and 4.5 million more lunches were served last fall after Free School Meals was enacted in MNGovernor Walz shares data highlighting the success of Minnesota's Free School Meals program

Liuetenant Governor Flanagan highlights new laws preventing pay discriminationLieutenant Governor Flanagan speaks to press at the State Capitol

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