Senate DFL Caucus Presents 2022 Legislative Priorities

Senate Minority Leader Melisa López Franzen and members of the Senate DFL Caucus presented their priorities for the 2022 session during a press conference Monday, January 31. Franzen promised a “very active and very vocal DFL Caucus,” as their goals include implementing an economic plan to accelerate Minnesota’s recovery from the pandemic, improving public safety, and investing in community needs.

The DFL’s economic plan would provide tax cuts for families, seniors, and small businesses, as well as lowering the costs of goods and services. Senator Nick Frentz, DFL-North Mankato, said their goal is to keep the economy open safely, while recognizing the work of frontline workers.

In relation to the improvement of public safety, Senator Ron Latz, DFL-St. Louis Park, stated, “We cannot rely on the tried-and-true methods Republicans are offering.” Latz added that the DFL will instead be prioritizing crime prevention and early intervention, ensuring law enforcement have the budget they need, and promoting trustworthy community policing.

Senator Mary Kunesh, DFL-New Brighton, Frentz, and Franzen stated that the community needs the DFL have chosen to prioritize include increasing access to affordable health care and housing, strengthening the education system, finding solutions for climate change at a state level, creating more affordable childcare, and ensuring access to the ballot box.