 This weekend, Governor Walz celebrated the 77th Governor’s Fishing Opener by reeling in three Northern Pike alongside legislative leaders of both parties on Cross Lake.
On Friday, Governor Walz participated in interviews with local and statewide press, participated in walleye fry stocking on Big Trout Lake, and joined a group of students at the Crosslake Recreation Area to present a Fishing Education Day proclamation, do some fishing, and highlight youth education efforts on conservation, fishing, and water safety. The Governor also visited the National Loon Center and Bayview Lodge, met with a group of area mayors, and attended a community celebration.
On Saturday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan joined the opening day launch ceremony before fishing on Cross Lake with legislative leaders. Afterwards, they joined other anglers for a shore lunch. Photos from the weekend’s events can be found on Flickr.
"There’s no better way to kick off summer than by heading out on the water to participate in Minnesota’s number one outdoor activity – fishing," said Governor Walz. "The walleye fishing opener marks my favorite time of year, and this year I’m especially excited to highlight Crosslake – a vibrant, charming community with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Thank you to the city of Crosslake, Explore Minnesota and the Minnesota DNR for putting on a great event and preserving the 77-year-old fishing opener tradition. Best of luck to everyone heading out on the water this season!”
“Minnesota offers thousands of miles of fishable rivers and streams, thousands of fishable lakes, more than a hundred species of fish, and a vibrant fishing community, making it one of the best places on earth to cast a line,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Every year I look forward to participating in the fishing opener – a Mother’s Day weekend tradition that serves as a reminder that outdoor spaces and experiences are for everyone. Thank you to the Crosslake community, and the local businesses, educators, and local leaders who made this weekend possible.”
Governor Walz released the following statement celebrating Minnesota’s highest high school graduation rate on record. Over 84 percent of the 2024 graduating class earned their diploma.
“Minnesota’s highest graduation rates on record are a testament to the historic investments we made to provide free school meals, support teacher training, expand mental health resources, and promote technical training opportunities for Minnesota high schoolers,” said Governor Walz. “The state is proud to celebrate the graduating class of 2024 and remains committed to supporting Minnesota students, setting them up for success beyond the classroom.”
The record graduation rate follows investments passed as part of the One Minnesota Budget in 2023. Among a variety of key efforts, this includes nation-leading literacy legislation, policies and funding to ensure safe and nurturing learning environments, investments in the educator workforce, and greater access to opportunities in high school.
 On Thursday, Governor Walz signed a bill into law giving service dogs in training the same protections and support as active service dogs. The Governor signed the bill alongside bill authors Senator Bonnie Westlin and Representative Cedrick Frazier, advocates, and service dogs Mato and Flint. Photos from the signing are linked here.
“Service dogs are vital to the many Minnesotans who depend on their services,” said Governor Walz. “This bill ensures service dogs in training can live with their trainers, who dedicate hundreds of hours working with these animals to ensure they can do their jobs reliably once they’re matched with a client and placed in their forever home.”
Chapter 16 House File 688 modifies service dog provisions in housing accommodations, ensuring service dogs in training are exempt from HOA and apartment rules that don’t allow dogs. Currently, only active service dogs are covered under the law.
|
