St. Paul, MN - Today, in a major step towards completing the work set by last session’s bipartisan framework agreement, the Minnesota House passed two pieces of capital investment legislation that would deliver nearly $1.9 billion for local jobs and projects throughout the state. The package of legislation is split between a $1.5 billion bonding bill (HF 669), using General Obligation (GO) bonds, and a $393 million cash bill (HF 670) through the general fund.
“The work of a bipartisan infrastructure bill never stopped, and today we are one step closer to delivering on the investments communities across the state have been urgently waiting for,” said Rep. Fue Lee (DFL - Minneapolis), author of the bills and Chair of the House Capital Investment Committee. “These investments take care of what we already have while lifting up communities too often left behind when it comes to capital investment. Whether it’s a road they’ll drive on, water they’ll drink, a college they’ll attend, a trail they’ll walk, or a home they’ll live in - this bill isn’t just for today’s Minnesotans, but tomorrow’s. It’s time to pass the business of 2022 so we can move onto the work of 2023.”
House File 669, the first bill taken up, focuses on taking care of existing infrastructure and leveraging federal funds that are available for certain projects. The bill also restores and protects our natural spaces, and funds critical infrastructure, such as water and transportation systems, that allow communities throughout the state to grow and thrive.
“Minnesotans deserve safe, strong, and inclusive communities — and updating our infrastructure is part of how we make that happen. High-quality infrastructure delivers the essential services Minnesotans rely on and contributes to our economic security and well-being,” said Speaker Melissa Hortman. “These bills are full of important infrastructure projects that will strengthen our communities and create jobs — helping Minnesota be successful now and into the future. I’m grateful for the bipartisan work on this bill, and I’m hopeful the Senate will follow suit and send the bill to the Governor’s desk.”
House File 670’s cash-funded projects include investments to protect communities from flooding, create safer nonmotorized transportation options, provide clean water, expand local recreational opportunities, modernize healthcare facilities, ensure safe shelter for youth, and increase educational and job training opportunities, among other things. It also includes numerous investments in BIPOC-led nonprofits that provide essential community services.
Bills that utilize GO bonds must originate in the House and require a supermajority to pass. House Fille 669 passed on a vote of 91-43. House File 670 passed on a vote 98-36. Video of today’s debate can be found on the House Public Information YouTube channel.
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