WorkWell MN Legislative Session Debrief: Advocating for Minnesota's Workforce in 2025
The 2025 legislative session was a busy and productive one for WorkWell MN! Our consortium united to advocate for crucial funding and policies to increase opportunities for Minnesota job seekers. We're thrilled to share some highlights from our collective efforts.
Impactful Day on the Hill: Focusing on Inclusive Workforce Policy
One of the cornerstones of our advocacy was our impactful WorkWell Day on the Hill on February 12, 2025. Over 50 attendees from 18 organizations gathered to meet with 13 legislators, advocating for workforce policies that support job seekers, businesses, and the economy. This event was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of our unified voice.
Our day began with remarks from Representative Dave Pinto (64B) and Representative Dave Baker (16B), Co-Chairs of the House Workforce CommitteeAssistant Commissioner At our legislative meetings, WorkWell MN shared policy priorities, underscoring the importance of workforce investments. The engagement and support we received reaffirmed the value of our work in building a stronger, more equitable workforce in Minnesota.
Broadening Our Impact: Strategic Engagement Throughout the Session
WorkWell MN’s advocacy efforts extend well beyond our Day on the Hill. We remained engaged throughout the course of the legislative session the following approaches to maximize our reach:
Advocacy Training: Prior to our Day on the Hill, 40 staff from WorkWell MN organizations attended a virtual advocacy training.
Joint Letters: We submitted joint letters on behalf of WorkWell MN to key legislative bodies, including the House Workforce and Senate Jobs Committees, the House Fraud Committee, the Jobs Conference Committee, and to Governor Walz.
Op-Ed: An Op-Ed was submitted to the Star Tribune to further amplify our message.
Legislative Victories and Key Outcomes for Minnesota
We are pleased to report on several positive outcomes included in the Jobs Committee's budget agreement:
Direct Appropriations to Nonprofits: A significant victory for WorkWell MN! Direct appropriations to nonprofits were included.
Increased Funding for Key Programs: We saw increases in funding for Pathways to Prosperity, Youth at Work, and Support Services competitive grant funds, as well as an increase in funding for Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
Drive for Five: This initiative received reduced funding from the last still includes programmatic grants as well as association/chamber grants.
New Task Force on Workforce Development System Reform: A new task force was established to review and reform how the state funds and evaluates workforce programs.
Addressing Challenges: Dislocated Worker Program Funding
Despite these successes, we also faced a significant and unanticipated cut in funding to the Dislocated Worker program. This program supports job seekers who have been laid off across the state, and we will continue to advocate for robust funding to ensure this vital safety net remains strong.
Looking Ahead for WorkWell MN
The 2025 legislative session demonstrated the power of collective action. WorkWell MN is incredibly grateful to all our attendees, members, and legislative champions who contributed to these efforts. Your dedication drives progress for a stronger, more equitable workforce Minnesota. We look forward to continuing our work and building on these achievements in the years to come.