Investing in Minnesota's Infrastructure / Reflecting on a Changing Minnesota

One significant negotiation expected in the 2024 legislative session is the size and scope of a bonding bill to fund infrastructure around the state. In mid-January, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan outlined their vision for a $982 million infrastructure package that prioritizes drinking water, community safety, maintenance of existing state facilities and housing. Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan joins Capitol Report moderator Shannon Loehrke to talk about the bonding bill, the new state flag and seal, changes to school curriculum and the importance of sharing one’s personal experience as a leader.

Last year, lawmakers approved a $2.6 billion bonding bill to fund statewide infrastructure projects. Because bills that take on debt require a supermajority, Republican members of the legislature will have a say in whether another bonding bill is passed during the 2024 legislative session. Senator Karin Housley, R-Stillwater, lead Republican of the Capital Investment Committee, joins Shannon to offer her perspective.

Also in the program, Senator Omar Fateh, DFL-Minneapolis, and supporters advocate for the elimination of minimum parking mandates statewide, and Brian Pease of the Minnesota Historical Society highlights the history of the Minnesota Capitol’s Senate Chamber.