11th Hour Updates from the Capitol
Public policy impacts people. We see how decisions made at the Legislature affect striving Minnesotans every day. Homelessness isn’t the problem. It’s the result of broken systems. Each year, we advocate for solutions to fix broken systems: homelessness prevention programs, more affordable housing, a stronger economic safety net. Here’s what we know in the 11th […]
Budget Proposals on the Table
As of this morning, lawmakers have released budget proposals affecting the Homes for All and Prosperity for All campaigns. These proposals show what’s on the table–but our work is far from done! Over the coming weeks, the Senate, House, and Governor’s office will be negotiating final budget agreements that will be signed into law by […]
Homeless Day on the Hill
Thank you to everyone who attended Homeless Day on the Hill! Over 600 advocates from across the state made their voices heard at the State Capitol. [View the story “Homeless Day on the Hill” on Storify]
Prosperity for All Legislation Clears Hurdle
We have exciting news from the State Capitol! On March 10, the bill to increase MFIP cash assistance by $100/month was approved unanimously in the Senate Health and Human Services committee. If it is included in the final budget deal, this will be the first MFIP increase since 1986. You can watch a clip from […]
Governor Dayton’s Budget Proposal
Governor Dayton released his 2016-17 budget proposal this week. The Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless praises Governor Dayton’s support for children and families. Top budget priorities include a child care tax credit, statewide pre-k, and wrap around school services. Here’s what we’re watching: HOMES FOR ALL $2.5M increase for Bridges (rental assistance for individuals with serious […]
Today’s Housing Hearing
We’re in the first few weeks of the 2015 Legislative Session. This afternoon, lawmakers on the Minnesota House Jobs & Economic Development Committee learned about housing issues from Commissioner Tingerthal and the 2015 Homes for All agenda. Thanks to everyone who made it to the hearing! [View the story “Kicking Off the Legislative Session” on […]
Legislative Wrap Up: $100 Million for Housing Passed!
In 2014, advocates and community members from across the state rallied to pass a record-breaking $100 million in bonds for housing at the State Capitol. On May 20, 2014, Governor Dayton signed the bill into law. This funding will be used to build and preserve over 5,000 units of affordable housing for homeless and low-income Minnesotans. […]
Legislative Wrap Up: Historic Changes for Striving Families
Here is a list of all the affirmative and positive MFIP policy changes that passed last week. Your Prosperity for All support and advocacy paid off in big ways! EDUCATION. The MFIP workforce education changes will take effect July 1, 2014: Unlimited participation will be allowed in adult basic education, GED coursework, ESL, and post-secondary education/training (including 4-year programs). Several statutory barriers […]
Walk a Mile
Policymaking 101 requires you to put yourself in the shoes the people affected. Let’s jump into the shoes of one of the 10,000 adults without a high school diploma or GED who participate in Minnesota’s welfare program (Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP). MFIP is the primary economic safety net for low-wage workers with children. COUNSELOR: […]
Join us in thanking legislators
Good news came out of the Capitol last week. The House Capital Investment Committee released it’s bonding bill proposal: it includes $100 million for housing! The Senate will release its bonding proposal next month. The MFIP Workforce Education Bill was also approved by key committees. Lawmakers will need to decide if it will be included in the final Health […]