ST. PAUL, Minn. – the Democratic legislative leadership unveiled its priorities for the 2023 session, led by “reproductive freedom.” House Speaker Melissa Hortman, D-Brooklyn Park. called the priorities “what Minnesotans expect and deserve.” Hortman said the former Republican Senate majority blocked movement on critical issues. “Now,” she said, “with unified DFL control of state government, we have an opportunity to work quickly to improve people’s lives.”
Hortman. Lays out blueprint for 2023.
Democratic priorities
Announced at news conference:
> Reproductive freedom. Put into state law the fundamental right to make reproductive health care decisions without interference from politicians.
> Paid family leave and earned sick time. Ensure that no Minnesotan is forced to choose between earning a paycheck and caring for a family member or themselves.
> Climate and clean energy. Tackle the climate crisis and create good jobs by transitioning to 100% safe, clean, carbon-free sources of energy by 2040.
> Prescription drugs. Prohibit big pharmaceutical companies from price gouging for life-saving medication like insulin, asthma inhalers, and EpiPens.
> Eary care fand learning. Help families pay for childcare so parents can pursue employment or education, and make sure children are well cared for and prepared to enter school.
> Public safety. Give law enforcement and communities the resources they need for safety, expedite criminal investigations, and prevent gun violence.
> Education. Close funding shortfalls, expand access to mental health services, and eliminate student food insecurity.
> Housing. Grow homeownership and reduce the cost of housing for Minnesotans who rely on the private rental market.
> Worker protections. Ensure workers are safe on the job and receive the wages and benefits they deserve and need to support themselves and their families.
> Infrastructure. Leverage federal funding to improve roads, bridges, transit, broadband internet access, water treatment facilities, and lead pipe replacement.
> Democracy. Improve access, increase participation, and close dark money campaign finance loopholes.
> Health care. Establish MinnesotaCare Buy-In coverage and expand access to high quality, affordable care.