Senate DFL

DFL Legislators Applaud Dayton’s Equity Proposals

DFL legislators were pleased to see Governor Mark Dayton’s funding for equity programs in his budget released yesterday. The $100 million proposal funds programs that work to eliminate economic and racial disparities through education, training, work experience, housing, business development, and community development. $33 million of the proposal is recommended to be at the discretion of the legislature, which is a thoughtful recognition of the first-hand knowledge legislators have of their districts and communities and the unique needs and programs that can best support equity for people of color. Senators Hayden, Torres Ray, Franzen, and Hawj, as well as Representatives Allen, Flanagan, Mariani, and Moran have all released statements of appreciation for the Governor’s significant investment recommendations.

No more excuses: Transportation must be our priority

Many DFL Senators renewed their push for investing in transportation at a press conference today to show their support for this important bill. The following Senators have released statements of support for passing a comprehensive, stable transportation package, a Senate DFL Caucus session priority: Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk (DFL-Cook), President of the Senate Sen. Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. Paul), Assistant Majority Leader Katie Sieben (DFL-Cottage Grove), Deputy Majority Leader Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFL-Minneapolis), Sen. Jim Carlson (DFL-Eagan), Sen. Greg Clausen (DFL-Apple Valley), Sen. Kevin Dahle (DFL-Northfield), Sen. Melisa Franzen (DFL-Edina), Sen. Vicki Jensen (DFL-Owatonna), Sen Alice Johnson (DFL-Blaine), Sen. Susan Kent (DFL-Woodbury), and Sen. Chuck Wiger (DFL-Maplewood).