Minnesota House passes jobs, labor and economic development budget after votes on vocational rehab, wells and subminimum wages

The Minnesota House on Friday passed Senate File 1832, the two‑year budget for jobs, labor and economic development, approving the bill as amended by a 115‑19 roll‑call vote after hours of debate over funding choices, vocational rehabilitation services, well‑contracting jurisdiction and labor policy changes.

Representative Pinto, a member from Ramsey, told the chamber the package had to absorb “a $50,000,000 cut in both biennia” and noted the bill includes both cuts and targeted policy and investment changes. Representative Baker, the bill’s other lead, said the bill funds agencies overseen by the committee while seeking “more accountability and more follow through” on workforce programs.

The bill advanced with several amendments that changed program funding and policy language. An authors’ amendment (A15) that the chairs described as adjusting grant language and shifting money to expand a small‑business competitive grant program was adopted by voice vote. That amendment also preserved state administration for a film tax credit program and restored related Explore Minnesota funding mentioned during debate.

Lawmakers approved an amendment (A18) that redirected funding to vocational rehabilitation services and the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program, which proponents described as an evidence‑based approach that helps people with serious mental illness obtain integrated employment. Representative Rae Rauer, speaking in favor, said IPS provides “a full range of employment services and supports to assist people with serious mental illnesses achieve integrated employment” and cited a reported success rate above 61 percent.

A contested amendment on well contracting (A14) passed on a recorded roll call, 69 ayes to 64…