These New MN Laws Just Went Into Effect: List

ST. PAUL, MN — Minnesota Democrats wasted little time passing new laws over the past legislative session while they maintained a rare trifecta majority. Gov. Tim Walz signed a wide range of progressive policies related to education, abortion, transgender surgeries, legal marijuana, and more.

As a result, Walz was hailed by allies as a model for Democratic governors. He was even called the "anti-Ron Desantis."

Below are just some of the laws that went into effect on July 1. Find every single law passed during the 2023 legislative session here.

Free school meals

As of July 1, K-12 students in Minnesota public schools will be guaranteed free breakfast and lunch every school day

Cannabis

While marijuana use and possession won't be legal until Aug. 1, the regulatory framework for statewide and local structures to manage cannabis sales to adults went into effect July 1. About $70 million will be spent in the 2024-25 biennium to establish cannabis regulatory programs.

The Office of Cannabis Management will approve products for retail sale and prohibit any product that is packaged in a way to be attractive to children. It will also establish environmental standards in the cannabis industry, in consultation with the Pollution Control Agency.

Election spending

About $24 million will be spent on elections in fiscal years 2023-25, a $10 million increase. Included is $2.5 million to assist local governments with election infrastructure and staffing.

PTSD retirements among first responders

A new law will require up to 32 weeks of mental health treatment before a police officer or firefighter with a psychological condition such as PTSD, or other serious mental health issue, can apply for duty disability benefits from the state. During treatment, the public safety agencies will be required to continue paying the employee’s full salary and benefits.

Protecting natural and cultural resources

More than $818 million will be appropriated to "protect, enhance, and restore" wildlife habitats, water sources, parks, and trails. Money will also go to Minnesota arts and cultural heritage efforts.

Nurse safety

The "Nurse and Patient Safety Act" was passed to reduce Minnesota's nursing shortage.

Starting July 1, hospitals are required to come up with action plans to combat violence against healthcare workers. The health professional education loan forgiveness program will also now include direct care nurses at nonprofit hospitals.

More funding for higher education

The state will spend an additional $650 million on public universities in Minnesota.

Fighting homelessness

A new law will appropriate $1.07 billion to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency over the 2024- 25 biennium to assist homeless people, struggling renters, and people hoping to become homeowners.

Veterans

New veterans’ homes that are set to open this year in Bemidji, Montevideo and Preston will receive a combined $20.06 million for startup costs.

Public safety

The state’s public safety, judiciary, and corrections departments and agencies will receive $3.56 billion in the 2024-25 biennium.

District court judges will get an 8 percent pay raise in the fiscal year 2024 and a 4 percent raise in the fiscal year 2025.