Mar 04 2025 2 mins
Minnesota's 2025 legislative session kicked off on January 14 with a power struggle in the House, as Democrats threatened to boycott opening day due to a disputed election result[1]. The National Federation of Independent Business announced its priorities for the session, including reforms to the state's Paid Family & Medical Leave program and tax relief for small businesses[2].
In economic news, Midwest manufacturers are feeling optimistic about 2025 despite a down year in 2024. A survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development found that nearly half of respondents expect an increase in orders, with about 40 percent planning to raise prices[7].
The state experienced record-breaking warmth in late January, with temperatures climbing into the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit across Minnesota. Over 30 long-term stations broke or tied daily maximum temperature records on January 28 and 30, with some locations reaching the upper 50s[8].
However, winter made a comeback in early March, as a winter storm watch was issued for southern Minnesota and parts of the Twin Cities metro area. The storm was expected to impact road conditions and potentially bring significant snowfall[10].
In community news, employees at downtown Minneapolis strip clubs are organizing a union called the Stripper Guild, which aims to educate dancers about their rights and explore collective health insurance options[5].
The Minnesota House is set to vote on legislation that would ban transgender athletes from participating in girls' and women's sports, sparking debate between supporters who argue for a level playing field and advocates for transgender rights[5].
Looking ahead, Minnesota farmers and rural communities will be watching closely as lawmakers work to finalize a two-year state budget by June 30. The Minnesota Farmers Union has released its 2025 legislative priorities, focusing on strong investments in agriculture programs, healthcare access for farm families, and support for young people in agriculture[6].
In economic news, Midwest manufacturers are feeling optimistic about 2025 despite a down year in 2024. A survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development found that nearly half of respondents expect an increase in orders, with about 40 percent planning to raise prices[7].
The state experienced record-breaking warmth in late January, with temperatures climbing into the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit across Minnesota. Over 30 long-term stations broke or tied daily maximum temperature records on January 28 and 30, with some locations reaching the upper 50s[8].
However, winter made a comeback in early March, as a winter storm watch was issued for southern Minnesota and parts of the Twin Cities metro area. The storm was expected to impact road conditions and potentially bring significant snowfall[10].
In community news, employees at downtown Minneapolis strip clubs are organizing a union called the Stripper Guild, which aims to educate dancers about their rights and explore collective health insurance options[5].
The Minnesota House is set to vote on legislation that would ban transgender athletes from participating in girls' and women's sports, sparking debate between supporters who argue for a level playing field and advocates for transgender rights[5].
Looking ahead, Minnesota farmers and rural communities will be watching closely as lawmakers work to finalize a two-year state budget by June 30. The Minnesota Farmers Union has released its 2025 legislative priorities, focusing on strong investments in agriculture programs, healthcare access for farm families, and support for young people in agriculture[6].