State Relations promotes the interests of the University of Minnesota system with our state elected officials and other state government stakeholders across Minnesota. We increase support for the University’s mission by illuminating the University’s contributions to research, education, public service, and the economy.
Minnesota Legislature passes bonding bill
On May 17, the Minnesota Legislature passed a bipartisan bonding bill providing $75 million for the University of Minnesota: $40 million for Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR) and $35 million for the St. Paul Campus Center. The bill has been sent to the governor for approval.
“We’re grateful for the bipartisan support from Governor Walz and our state legislators to invest in foundational University projects that strengthen communities across Minnesota,” said University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham. “These improvements are critical for the world-class teaching and research facilities that define Minnesota’s future, ensuring our students, faculty and staff have modern, safe and reliable infrastructure to learn, discover and prepare the workforce Minnesota depends on.” Read more about the statewide impact of this funding.
Setting University Legislative Priorities
Legislative priorities of the University are prepared in consultation with the President, the Provost, the Office of the Senior Vice President for Finance and Operations, and Government Relations and then referred to the Board of Regents for review and action. Once the recommendations are approved, the Board submits them to the Minnesota Legislature and executive branch agencies for consideration in the upcoming legislative session.
If you are interested in submitting a budget or capital request for consideration by the Legislature or Governor, please consult with the Dean of your college and the Office of the Provost. Government Relations cannot approve or deny budget or capital requests, and will only support projects or budget requests submitted by the Board of Regents.
Contact
Christine Kiel
Director of Government Relations
[email protected]
Focus area: Health sciences
Andrew Chelseth
Associate Director of Government Relations
[email protected]
Focus areas: Agriculture, energy, environment, K-12 education
Keeya Steel
Government Relations Communications Analyst
[email protected]
Focus area: UMN Advocates, fiscal notes, mandated reports.
