Policy priorities for the MN legislative session

WorkWell MN seeks to address Minnesota’s significant worker shortage and continued racial disparities through the preparation of an often-overlooked population of workers. Through skilling up and reskilling workers, we can prepare a new generation of individuals to meet current employer needs across the state. Together, we are committed to solving some of Minnesota’s biggest employment challenges and creating positive change for both jobseekers and employers across the Minnesota workforce system.

Our shared 2025 public policy priorities include:

Ensure Program Continuity for Jobseekers
Greater consistency in grant funding requirements and payments is needed so that jobseekers do not experience interruptions in their training or other workforce supports. WorkWell MN supports a streamlined renewal process, extended grant timelines, and faster review/awards processes. A statutory language change that would allow payment of contracts at “effective date” rather than “date of execution” could create greater program continuity for jobseekers (language change needed to 16B.98 – subd 5).

Increase Flexible Programming to Meet Jobseeker Needs
Increased flexibility in cost categories in existing funding streams as well as increases in support service dollars for pre-training, pre-readiness work would create better prepared employees. Funding continues to be needed for “core” employment services including English for work, digital literacy, resumes, job search, etc. Allow for a broader range of services to better meet individual needs (may not be pathway specific) and expand program eligibility to a broader group of jobseekers.

Invest in Learn + Earn Models
Some Minnesotans need additional work experience and/or short-term training to successfully transition into high demand careers with the potential for a living wage. However, few adults can take time off from paid work or caregiving even for free training. WorkWell MN advocates for additional funds allowing the provision of training stipends and/or incentives for participants enrolled in training programs to support successful program completion.