Snow Day Relief Act, Early-Learning Scholarships, Budget Forecast Analysis

Hearty Minnesotans continue to navigate this difficult winter, but the weather has taken a toll on Minnesota schools. Districts have had to cancel classes due to extreme cold and big snow storms, causing consternation for school boards who have to meet a standard number of days to receive full funding. Senator Carla Nelson, R-Rochester, chair of the E-12 Education committee, has a bill that would address the attendance shortfall. She joins Capitol Report moderator Shannon Loehrke to talk about the Snow Day Relief Act and also a bill to expand early-learning scholarships.

The numbers are out. The February Budget and Economic Forecast, which guides lawmakers’ state budgeting process, has weakened since November. Dr. Laura Kalambokidis, Minnesota's state economist, talks about what is driving slower growth.

In our occasional series, The People’s House, we highlight various aspects of the beautiful state Capitol. The recent renovation created more public spaces, including the Third Floor Gallery (Rooms 320 and 321). On display through April, "Sleeping Giant, the Iron Range of Minnesota," is a collection of images depicting the region's distinctive landscape and resilient people by photographer Vance Gellert. He talks with Shannon about his work.