Government Affairs Director
Ewald Consulting
MASA Lobbyist
The 2024 legislative session is moving at a quick pace. The House and Senate Education committees have had busy agendas as they review changes from the last session and hear new ideas this session. Some we support, some we do not. Please know we are working hard to have your voice heard on those proposals.
Recently, the Office of Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released an updated budget forecast. This update showed a projected $3.7 billion surplus for the FY24-25 biennium, an increase of $1.3 billion from the November forecast. While this is good news, elected officials continue to have concerns about the budget outlook in the FY26-27 biennium. Legislative leaders and the Governor continue to encourage caution because of this uncertainty. While ongoing funding is unlikely, the improved budget outlook gives us hope for additional one-time funding.
We expect the Governor to release his supplemental budget recommendations in mid-March and the House and Senate omnibus education policy bills. Any education supplemental budget bill will be out in early April.
Some key bills have been introduced, and some even have received hearings, that align with MASA’s key legislative priorities. They include additional funding for the READ Act, an ongoing funding stream for unemployment insurance, and a two percent increase in the per-pupil formula. In the policy area, legislation has been introduced to allow districts to create flexible learning environments for students, to carry over unspent student support personnel funds, and to continue the compensatory hold harmless.
Over the remainder of the session, please continue communicating with your legislators about issues important to your district. While the budget forecast makes it more difficult for ongoing funding, it is imperative legislators hear from you about the financial challenges your districts have ahead.
Please also continue to ask your legislators to pass no new mandates and instead entrust your school district with the autonomy to make decisions based on community needs. Your work to connect with your local elected officials is greatly appreciated!
