Statement from Speaker Hortman and Majority Leader Winkler on Special Session

St. Paul, Minnesota — Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler released the following statements on Governor Walz’s announcement that Special Session will begin on Monday, July 13:

“House DFLers remain focused on improving Minnesotans’ lives,” said Speaker Hortman. “We need systemic change in policing that ensures police are accountable to the communities they serve, and we must act swiftly to help rebuild communities that suffered property damage during the civil unrest. A robust jobs and local projects bill is critically important as we endure economic challenges due to the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges in every aspect of our lives, from our health and social interactions to our jobs and schools. There has never been a more difficult time for our state. House DFLers are hard at work with our colleagues in the Senate and the executive branch to find solutions to the myriad challenges we face.”

“We are faced with extraordinary challenges including the pandemic, the murder of George Floyd, the need for significant police accountability legislation, rebuilding Minneapolis and St. Paul, and a recession,” said Majority Leader Winkler. “Now is not a time for partisan division. Instead, we are hopeful that we can come together to address these significant issues for all Minnesotans.”