ST. PAUL, MN – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives Capital Investment Committee unveiled a bonding proposal designed to create jobs by investing in public works projects across Minnesota.
The $800 million package includes over $100 million in funding for the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) system. Parts of those funds are devoted to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) initiatives and workforce training at Itasca Community College.
“The House DFL bonding proposal is a winner for northeastern Minnesota,” said Rep. Anzelc (DFL—Balsam Township). “I can think of no better investment than expanding opportunities for our students. We’re going to put these funds to good use so more Minnesotans can obtain the skills they need to get a good job and provide for their families.”
Specifically, the bonding proposal includes $2.7 million for STEM initiatives at MnSCU campuses, such as renovations and expansions of science laboratories and classrooms. In addition, it appropriates $3.7 million for design, renovation, and construction for workforce training and programs for energy and sustainable development. Rep. Anzelc says the community college in Grand Rapids, Itasca Community College, will benefit from this funding.
“This is an exciting time for northeastern Minnesota,” added Rep. Anzelc. “We’re poised to pass a budget that puts our fiscal house on solid footing, make investments in areas like education that grow the middle class, and create good jobs with the help of this bonding proposal.”
The proposed bonding bill awaits a vote in the House Capital Investment Committee.