immigrant and BIPOC communities. Supporting these communities today will have generational impacts that will make Minnesota better for all Minnesotans far into the future.
Besides the budget surplus, federal American Rescue Plan funds for COVID relief will also be allocated during this legislative session. New Minnesotans and Minnesota's BIPOC communities make up a substantial portion of the essential workers who sacrificed during the pandemic, particularly in food production and processing, construction, health care, and other essential work. They have also been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
Since 2010, more than half of Minnesota’s labor force growth has been driven by immigrants. In many ways, our state has recognized the key role of new Minnesotans to the economy and community and welcomed immigrants as part of our community. But we still have work to do.
Governor Walz proposes using the surplus to ensure that Minnesota will be "the best state in the country for families to raise their children." Funding for childcare, preschool education, free meals for students, and reduced tuition for post-secondary education must include all Minnesotans, including immigrants and refugees.
We strongly support proposed legislation to expand MinnesotaCare to cover undocumented children. Legislation that would increase legal aid funding will help to protect the rights of low-income immigrants and also help immigrants applying for citizenship.
Minnesota's growth and stability depend on our commitment to all Minnesotans, including BIPOC, refugee, and new immigrant communities.
With gratitude,
