Bipartisan framework of session-ending deal includes education investments, tax cuts

On Monday in St. Paul, the sun is shining, the sky is bright blue and Gov. Tim Walz and legislative leaders have reached agreement on a framework to end the 2022 legislative session.

The deal calls for $4 billion toward a tax bill and a $1.4 billion capital investment bill. It also includes additional spending of $1 billion in education, $1 billion for health care and human services, and $450 million for public safety. Additional investments are to come from a $1.32 billion pot. Left on the bottom line is $4 billion to help the state manage future economic uncertainty.

“There’s an awful lot of the hard work of democracy to be done this week, but the parameters have been set and they’ve been done in a way that I think should make Minnesotans proud,” Walz said.

Added House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley): “We are looking at a budget agreement today that will help Minnesotans better afford the cost of living, to help them afford child care and housing. We’re looking at a budget agreement to help Minnesotans recover from two of the toughest years in our state’s history. … Investments contained in this budget agreement will make big differences in the lives of millions of people.”