Earlier in the day, the full Minnesota House debated a $2 billion bonding bill. It did not receive a super majority of votes needed to pass, which requires at least six votes from House Republicans who are in the minority.

Of note, during the debate, House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley) argued for the importance of a robust bonding bill as critical stimulus for future construction jobs. During his remarks, he mentioned heat and frost insulators:

“The construction industry is strong right now, but the pipeline is drying up. In six to twelve months from now we will have a real shortage of construction jobs. Carpenters, large equipment operators, painters and glaziers, heating and frost insulators, pipefitters and plumbers,  bricklayers, electricians, laborers, sheet metal workers—ALL will need jobs in the months ahead. The jobs help their families. The jobs support communities, local businesses, and our whole economy.”

You can watch the clip here (the link should take you to the right spot): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mURgoTZfpvk&feature=youtu.be&t=4622

House Speaker Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park) and Rep. Winkler held a press conference after the vote to criticize House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt (R-Crown) for not allowing the bill to pass. Daudt has that his caucus won’t deliver any votes for a bonding bill while the governor’s emergency powers remain in effect.

All sides are expected to continue negotiations tomorrow, although the likely June special session has diminished some of the urgency around those talks.

Amos A. Briggs | Government Relations
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