Ahead of additional weekend rainfall, Governor Walz has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor flooding in Southern and Central Minnesota
 Governor Walz traveled to the cities of Cook and Biwabik in northeast Minnesota to survey damage caused by severe flooding.
"When it comes to Minnesota weather, we never know the hand we are going to be dealt. From last year’s summer drought and forest fires to the major flooding we are dealing with today, what remains consistent is the ability of our communities to come together in times of crisis," said Governor Walz. "Here amidst the flooding, I am reminded of the strength and resilience of Minnesotans. Together we will build back, and the state stands ready to support."
"I’m so grateful to the local leaders, first responders, and county emergency managers working to keep Minnesotans safe," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "As northeast Minnesota continues to respond to this natural disaster, we’ll continue to monitor weather conditions statewide and provide our full support.
 As southern and central Minnesota are expected to experience flood conditions in the coming days, Governor Walz has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor conditions over the weekend.
 Governor Walz held a ceremonial bill signing for legislation that will help ease the burden of medical debt on Minnesotans – which includes provisions that ensure medical bills will no longer affect Minnesotans' credit scores and providers can no longer withhold medical care due to unpaid debt.
“Life-saving cancer treatments or a trip to the emergency room shouldn’t cause a tanked credit score or a lifetime of debt,” said Governor Walz. “Thanks to the work of the Attorney General, legislators, and Minnesotans who’ve shared their stories, these reforms will help Minnesotans get the care they need, manage their medical debt, and feel protected in their most vulnerable moments.”
 Lieutenant Governor Flanagan traveled to Canada on the first-ever trade mission by the United States Department of Agriculture focused on Indigenous products. The Lieutenant Governor joined Red Lake, Inc. in representing Native producers from Minnesota alongside 15 Tribal agribusinesses and 13 Native agricultural leaders from across the country.
“Native farmers and producers feed our families and the world,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “I am proud to lift up Native agriculture as a standard part of our Minnesota trade missions. I am looking forward to connecting with more Native farmers and producers and showcasing the products that Minnesota has to offer to our global partners. Indian Country has always led in agribusiness and innovation.”
 Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced over $12 million for job skills training, work readiness, internships, work experience, on-the-job training, and job placement for Minnesotans.
“Anyone who has submitted a job application knows the difficulty and frustration that can come with finding work,” said Governor Walz. “For underserved communities, those challenges are compounded. Lack of opportunities for continued education, training, and work experience can hurt job prospects. These grants directly address those disparities to help Minnesotans find fulfilling careers and earn sustaining wages while ensuring businesses fill open positions with skilled workers – it’s a win for workers, businesses, and the economy.”
“Race, gender, and zip code should not be barriers to work. Yet, for many individuals this is a reality,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Historically marginalized communities continue to face disparities that prohibit workforce entry and career growth. These grants are a vital step in increasing accessibility for those who have consistently faced such barriers. This investment in job training, work readiness, and job placement is an investment in economic equity.”
Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced $8 million to support mentorship programs for new teachers in teacher shortage areas, including special education. Grantees will work with districts and schools throughout the state to support mentoring programming for new teachers.
"Positive mentorship can be the difference between a fulfilling career and burnout," said Governor Walz. "Teachers are supporting, mentoring, and caring for our kids every day. If we are to fulfill our mission of creating the best state in the country for children, we must take care of our teachers. These grants are a step forward in filling gaps and providing necessary resources in a demanding profession."
"Investing in teachers is common sense. When they are cared for and supported, students reap the benefits," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "These mentorship grants are providing that support and helping ensure the presence of high-quality, diverse teachers in the areas where they’re most needed. We’re building a strong teacher workforce that will have positive benefits for years to come."
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