Special Session 2017
Contact: Kenza Hadj-Moussa, TakeAction Minnesota, 612-386-9556
“Republican lawmakers passed preemption as part of a shameless package that pits workers against workers. We have seen moves like this in Wisconsin, where state law strips collective bargaining rights, and stops cities from raising wages.
Workers are making progress in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth – catching up to an economy that has otherwise left them behind. It’s clear that big business is trying everything to block higher wages and paid sick time in Minnesota.
The Legislature has a choice to work for our democracy or industry. In a chaotic special session, the GOP pushed through countless provisions that blatantly prioritize narrow corporate interests.
Health care for low-income Minnesotans is on the chopping block. Health insurance companies walked away with $900 million in subsidies and tax breaks. The $1.6 billion budget surplus is going toward tax breaks for businesses and wealthy Minnesotans, with the estate tax repeal.
The rights of local citizens to raise environmental standards are being stripped away, with the ban on plastic bag regulations. And the GOP continues to shut out our families and neighbors by denying drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants.
Our government should be for the people. Lawmakers have until June 30 to try again, and take preemption off the table. Our fight continues.
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TakeAction Minnesota is a statewide, multi-racial people’s organization. We advance democracy and equity through organizing, political action, policy campaigns, and communications.
