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Governor Walz ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff starting sunrise on Friday, May 31, 2024, to honor Minneapolis Police Officer Jamal Mitchell who died in the line of duty.
"Minnesota mourns the loss of Officer Jamal Mitchell, a dedicated public servant and hero in his community who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting his neighbors," said Governor Walz. "Our first responders are first to step in during crisis. We must never take their commitment for granted, and we must ensure they can answer their call of duty without fearing for their own lives. My heart is with the family and loved ones of Officer Mitchell at this time."
"Flags are flying at half-staff as we come together to honor Minneapolis Police Officer Jamal Mitchell," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "Minnesota owes Officer Mitchell a debt of gratitude for his courage and sacrifice. Our hearts are with his loved ones through this time of immeasurable grief."
 Alongside veterans and community leaders, Governor Walz officially dedicated the new veterans home in Montevideo. The Montevideo Veterans Home is one of three new Minnesota veterans homes that the state opened this year.
"Minnesota remains committed to our veterans. The opening of the Montevideo Veterans Home, the third this year, is a reflection of that commitment," said Governor Walz. "This is another step in the right direction as we continue our work and fulfill our duty to support veterans and end veteran homelessness."
 Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced that Minnesota is launching the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program to help families purchase food during the summer months. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that more than 400,000 children in Minnesota could benefit from the program.
"The end of the school year should not mark the start of food scarcity," said Governor Walz. "This program, which has been a major priority of our administration, provides a boost for families, allowing them to ensure that their children have enough food to keep them going all summer and ready to learn come fall."
"As someone who utilized the free and reduced lunch program, I know firsthand the impact of food insecurity. Our kids shouldn’t have to worry about where their next meal will come from. I also know that when the school year ends, kids can fall through the cracks," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "This program is a vital safety net for our children. It’s a continuation of our commitment to making life more affordable for everyone, and this program ensures that all children can stay healthy and fed all year long."
 Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan held a ceremonial bill signing to celebrate legislation keeping rideshare services in Minnesota while also raising driver pay.
"Protecting workers is a priority for our administration. This bill is a reflection of our commitment to ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for rideshare drivers," said Governor Walz. "I applaud the work of Representative Hassan and Senator Fateh and the work of the entire legislature in finding a solution on this pressing issue."
"Uber and Lyft are vital services that Minnesotans across the state rely on every day," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "Rideshares get people to doctor’s appointments, work, and school and are a vital stopgap for those who lack other forms of transportation. Those providing these services deserve fair wages and protections. As we continue to fight for our workers, I am grateful for that work that was done to pass this legislation."
Governor Walz announced that eight Minnesota members of the Minnesota All Hazards Incident Management Team are traveling to Iowa to assist local first responders as communities begin recovering from tornadoes that tore through the Greenfield area.
"In Minnesota we’re no strangers to the devastation of tornadoes. We know the heartbreak that accompanies the loss of homes and businesses and the necessity of working together to rebuild," said Governor Walz. "In the wake of this storm, we are stepping up to support our neighbors. My heart goes out to the community of Greenfield as they recover."
"Minnesota is sending a team of first responders to assist Iowa communities as they begin recovering from tornadoes that tore through the Greenfield area. Our thoughts – and actions – are with our neighbors in Iowa," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
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