2015 legislative session ends; special session likely
As constitutionally mandated, the Minnesota Legislature adjourned at midnight, May 18, marking the end of the 2015 legislative session. The House and Senate passed all of their budget bills, with the exception of a tax bill. These bills now await action by Governor Dayton. In a press conference this afternoon, the governor said he will veto the E-12 education bill over a lack of universal pre-K funding and will work with House and Senate leaders to call a special session.
The 2016 legislative session is scheduled to begin March 8, 2016.
Legislature passes higher ed bill, provides $53.2 million in new funding
On Saturday, May 16, the Higher Education Conference Committee passed a report providing $53.2 million in new funding for the University of Minnesota, including $30 million for the Medical School and $22.2 million for tuition relief. On Sunday, May 17, the Senate passed the bill 57-8 and the House passed the bill 71-57. The bill awaits the governor’s signature. Read the bill.
View a comparison of proposals this session for University funding.
Bonding bill runs out of time
On Saturday, May 16, the House passed a $98 million bonding bill. The bill included $8.5 million for the University’s Willmar Poultry Testing Laboratory. Yesterday, the Senate amended the House bill to provide $107 million in funding, including the Willmar lab. However, the House adjourned before voting on the Senate’s version of the bill. A bonding bill could be passed during a special session.
View a comparison of proposals this session for University bonding projects.
Other budget bills relevant to the U of M
The following budget bills awaiting the governor’s approval contain various provisions relevant to the University: