Nursing Home Happy Hour, Power Lines, Foreclosures: 5 Bills Gov. Walz Just Signed

ST. PAUL, MN — Gov. Tim Walz has signed five bipartisan bills into law in Minnesota, with the measures touching everything from nursing home happy hours to power lines, veterans benefits, and mortgage foreclosures.

Here are five bills Walz just signed:

Nursing home happy hours

In announcing the bill, Walz said people living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities should not have to give up everyday freedoms, like drinking alcohol.

"Living in a nursing home or assisted living facility should not mean giving up everyday freedoms," Walz said. "This bipartisan bill increases independence and safety under clear regulations, while ensuring residents are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve, including the ability to get together for happy hour."

According to the governor's office, the bill also authorizes certain municipalities to issue liquor licenses, clarifies trade practices between manufacturers and wholesalers, and changes licensing requirements for some establishments, including those operated by the University of Minnesota.

Faster path for some energy transmission projects

HF 3802 changes exemptions to the state's certificate of need requirement for energy infrastructure projects. The governor's office said the bill is intended to help streamline the development and modernization of transmission lines.

Education support for veterans' families

HF 3741 expands and clarifies educational assistance for veterans' spouses and children, helping ensure continued access to tuition support and financial assistance.

Tighter rules for some state veterans benefits

HF 3544 updates eligibility for state-funded veterans benefits by specifying that people who have forfeited federal veterans benefits are not eligible for state programs. The bill also discontinues the environmental hazards information and assistance program.

Foreclosure postponement process clarified

HF 3479 clarifies the process for postponing mortgage foreclosure sales, giving homeowners additional options while navigating foreclosure proceedings.