 Governor Walz signed an executive order eliminating college degree requirements for over 75% of state government jobs – opening job opportunities for more people and making it easier for people in Minnesota to choose state service.
"We’re making sure these opportunities are available to more Minnesotans, so we can grow our workforce, tap into valuable skills, and recognize that not all Minnesotans need a four-year degree to be successful,” said Governor Walz. “By removing these requirements, we’re expanding opportunities for people to enter the workforce, choose state service, and build a good-paying, family-sustaining career.”
“For too long, 4-year degree requirements have stood in the way of job opportunities for highly qualified Minnesotans ready to join the state workforce. Today, we’re opening doors,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “We are breaking down barriers to good-paying jobs and investing in the success of Minnesotans by recognizing that job skills can come from a wide variety of experiences.”
 Governor Walz announced that the state has awarded more than $2.3 million in grants to infrastructure projects in Greater Minnesota. The projects are expected to fund 946 full-time jobs in three communities.
“In Minnesota, we know that investing in infrastructure builds strong communities and grows our economy,” said Governor Walz. “These infrastructure projects in Greater Minnesota will create jobs, attract investment, and improve the lives of Minnesotans.”
 On Wednesday, Governor Walz welcomed President Joe Biden to Northfield, Minnesota to highlight federal investments in in Greater Minnesota, rural America, and climate-smart agriculture.
"Together, we’re ensuring that Minnesotans don’t have to leave their hometown to find opportunity," said Governor Walz.
"By advancing climate-smart agriculture, we’re moving our state forward – in partnership – with everyone in mind" said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
 Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced that increased payment rates for child care assistance take effect this week as Minnesota continues to move toward making child care accessible to more families.
"Affordable and accessible child care is essential to creating opportunity and economic growth across the state,” said Governor Walz. “We’re raising child care assistance rates to support providers and improve access for more families. This is an investment in our workforce, economy, and the well-being of families.”
 “Bold and impactful child care investments like this are crucial to making Minnesota the best state for children and families,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Our state’s current and future economy relies on child care providers every day and the important work they do to educate and care for our youngest Minnesotans. I’m proud to invest in the entire spectrum of child care from increasing access and affordability for families to ensuring our providers can make a living caring for our littlest Minnesotans.”
 On Tuesday, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan toured Hutchinson Middle School to celebrate the Farm to School program.
"Making it easier for schools to provide meals with locally-grown ingredients means giving small and emerging farmers a boost – all while setting our students up for success with healthy meals," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
 Governor Walz celebrated that Minnesota farmers and landowners have enrolled one million acres in a voluntary agricultural water quality program, achieving a goal Governor Walz set in December 2020. The Governor made the announcement at the farm of Eric Heins of Altura. Heins represents one of the 1,400 farmers who’ve become certified since the program began in 2014.
“This program ensures our lakes, rivers, and drinking water are protected for future generations,” said Governor Walz. “Farmers understand the need for this better than anyone – their bottom line depends on conservation and a stable climate. Our farmers are stewards of our natural resources, and they’re stepping up in a big way to implement sustainable practices that will protect the water, land, and community around them.”
 On Saturday, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan led a women's pheasant hunt in Austin.
"Hunting is a key pillar of our state’s economy and a huge draw for visitors to Minnesota (over 500,000+ people take part every year in Minnesota!). Proud to keep this time-honored tradition going," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM
|
