SAINT PAUL, MINN. – Today, Senate Republicans held a virtual press conference on a housing proposal that includes some housing assistance paired with language that would weaken Governor Walz’s Executive Order on prohibiting evictions during the peacetime emergency. Speaker Melissa Hortman and House Housing leaders released the following statements:
“I support a bill that prioritizes the needed $100 million in housing assistance,” said House Speaker Melissa Hortman. “Republicans in the Senate are seeking to speed up and expand the number of cases where evictions are allowed, and the Minnesota House DFL opposes those proposed policy changes.”
“The priority of Governor Walz and the Minnesota House is to ensure Minnesotans can stay safe at home and afford to keep the roof over their heads. That is why we support moving forward quickly to pass $100 million in housing assistance for Minnesota homeowners, renters, and landlords,” said Rep. Alice Hausman. “Housing advocates and landlords alike agree that funding at this level is necessary and there is no reason we shouldn’t proceed.”
“Unfortunately, Senate Republicans are holding needed housing assistance hostage, insisting that Governor Walz revisit his executive order that prevents evictions during the COVID-19 global epidemic,” said Rep. Michael Howard. “Evicting Minnesotans during the height of this epidemic would be a public health disaster. We encourage Senate Republicans to join the broad spectrum of housing providers and advocates that are pleading for $100 million in housing assistance.”
The Minnesota House has introduced HF 4541 (Hausman), which provides $100 million in housing assistance. The House will hold a virtual hearing on the bill on Wednesday, April 22, at 8:00 AM.