Walz announces part of budget proposal focusing on climate, economy

Thursday, Gov. Tim Walz unveiled the second part of his budget proposal with a $4.1 billion package that includes funding for agriculture, climate, small businesses, and paid family leave.

This comes two days after the governor unveiled his education budget proposal – the first piece of his four-part plan.

The package includes funding to create a paid family and medical leave plan, increase earned sick and safe time access and expand unemployment benefits to hourly school workers. Additionally, it features more than $100 million for local farmers and producers, which Walz’s office calls the largest agriculture budget in state history.

Other items funded by the proposal include measures to move the state to 100% clean energy in the electricity sector by 2040 and to increase access to electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

“I’m committed to making sure Minnesota remains competitive in a global economy. From our nation-leading agriculture industries to Minnesota-based companies paving the way for a clean energy economy, Minnesota has one of the most diverse and most resilient economies in the country,” Walz said. “This budget invests in the people and businesses that made our economy strong in the first place, and it protects the natural resources that Minnesotans cherish most. By attracting and building a workforce that makes Minnesota a destination state for teachers, nurses, entrepreneurs, farmers, small business owners, and skilled workers, we are building an economy that will remain strong for generations to come.”