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Federal Issues

Federal policy decisions in areas from health care to nutrition to the environment have a real impact on Minnesotans' daily lives. The federal government is also an important partner in funding public services at the state and local levels, and federal tax decisions influence our state tax system as well. Our analysis focuses on whether federal policies support or hinder Minnesota's progress toward building a broader prosperity for all.

Research

August 2020

New data show COVID is amplifying hardships for low-income people and folks of color

As the United States enjoyed a lengthy period of economic growth following the Great Recession, the benefits did not...

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August 2020

Recession responses that do not center Minnesotans of color likely to widen racial disparities

Policy responses to the Great Recession were insufficient in magnitude and length to mitigate racial disparities, and in fact some disparities were made worse. Policymakers must prioritize racial equity in their responses to the current economic downturn and COVID pandemic, to ensure all our communities, whether Black, Brown, or white, can thrive and are resilient in weathering these crises.

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November 2019

Only Wealthy Immigrants Need Apply: The Chilling Effects of "Public Charge"

While not yet in effect, President Trump's public charge rule would have a chilling effect on over 200,000 Minnesotans and have negative economic impacts on the state. 

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July 2018

Federal funds to Minnesota are instrumental to building shared prosperity

Partnership with the federal government allows Minnesotans to have affordable health care, strong roads and transit, supports for jobs and training, and other priorities for thriving families and communities. Close to $25 billion, or 30 percent of the state’s budget, comes from the federal government.

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Federal Issues Blog Posts

October 15, 2020

Economic update shows COVID-19’s impact, need for federal action

COVID-19 is still a major threat to the country’s health, economy, and public services we all count on. The state of Min...

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August 13, 2020

Emergency SNAP funding an essential part of an anti-racist COVID response

Expanded SNAP food assistance is one tool that should be made available to the millions of families struggling to get by while also being one step in reversing centuries-long patterns of discrimination.

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August 10, 2020

Minnesota expecting continued revenue shortfalls; time for strong federal action

July brought us more sobering news about the ongoing damage that COVID-19 is expected to have on the economy, and by extension the state’s budget.

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August 03, 2020

New data confirm states need more federal Medicaid support

Data shows climbing numbers of Minnesotans needing some help to afford care while we’re also seeing massive state revenue shortfalls as a result of the pandemic’s economic disruption. This presents a serious mismatch of needs and resources. An increase to federal Medicaid funding is needed to make sure people can get the health care they need, when they need it.

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More Federal Blog Posts

Research Focus

fed highlighy

Federal Funds are Instrumental to Building Prosperity

The federal government is a significant source of funding for Minnesota and helps more Minnesotans have affordable health care, assists low-income families who are trying to make ends meet, and strengthens our roads and transit systems. 

In the FY 2018-19 biennium, about 30 percent of the state’s budget comes from the federal government, or close to $25 billion. Additional federal dollars go to local governments and nonprofits for education, transportation, and other community investments. Read the full report here.

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