The Minneapolis City Council on Nov. 6 approved a resolution extending the city attorney's delegated authority to initiate or join lawsuits challenging federal administration actions through Jan. 20, 2029.

The city attorney told the council that the office had used the previously delegated authority three times since February and found value in being able to move quickly when joint plaintiffs and legal interests arise. "We have taken advantage of that delegated authority 3 times so far," the city attorney said during the presentation.

Council members who spoke in support framed the extension as a preparedness step. One council member said it is one of several measures the city should have in place to respond rapidly to federal decisions and potential deployments, describing a legal response as a clear first line of action.

The resolution was moved and seconded on the floor and adopted by roll call. The clerk recorded 11 ayes and no nays on the motion to adopt the resolution.

The action continues a practice in which the council delegates authority to the city attorney to file or join lawsuits when speed is necessary and when the city shares claims with other plaintiffs. The city attorney's office said it will continue to notify the council and use closed sessions after filing to keep members informed.

What the vote does not do is specify the individual cases that the city attorney may file; the resolution extends authority to act without prior full-council approval but does not remove subsequent reporting requirements to the council.