ST. PAUL, MN – This week, the Minnesota House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee passed an amendment authored by Rep. Tom Anzelc (DFL—Balsam Township) to the House K-12 education bill that prohibits school districts from starting classes before Labor Day.
Rep. Anzelc’s amendment passed with support from both sides of the aisle.
“This is a victory for Minnesota’s hospitality and tourism industries,” said Rep. Anzelc. “It’s a pro-business measure that protects the vitality of this critical sector of our state’s economy.”
During debate in the Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Anzelc pointed out that tourism-related businesses in his district are already experiencing thin margins, meaning any action to limit time for families to take summer vacations could further damage their profitability.
“I’ve heard from many businesses in my district about this issue,” added Rep. Anzelc. “Quite frankly, we hurt the industry’s bottom line when we cut the vacation season short. It simply doesn’t make good economic sense. I’m pleased my amendment passed. It’s going to give business owners greater peace of mind and protect northeastern Minnesota’s regional economy.”
The House K-12 omnibus bill is expected to be heard on the floor of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, April 23.