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Minnesota Budget Stalls Over Immigrant Health Care Rollback

Progressive DFL lawmakers and activists oppose removing undocumented adult coverage, forcing reliance on GOP votes and likely special session.

Overview

  • Gov. Tim Walz and legislative leaders announced a $67 billion budget deal that includes cutting health care for undocumented adults by December 31 while retaining coverage for children.
  • Progressive Democrats, faith groups, and unions have protested the rollback, with some DFL lawmakers vowing to block the deal over moral and fiscal concerns.
  • The tied House and slim DFL Senate majority have made GOP support essential for passing the budget, increasing Republican leverage in negotiations.
  • The Minnesota Department of Human Services reported $3.9 million in costs for the MN Care program since January, with higher-than-expected enrollment fueling GOP calls for cuts.
  • Legislators are preparing for a likely special session after the May 19 deadline to finalize the budget and avoid a partial government shutdown.