By Dana Kazel
Following the close of the 2026 Minnesota Legislative session, St. Louis County leaders reflected on the outcomes of the session and issued a statement reflecting on how new legislation would benefit county residents and improve county operations.
"In such a closely divided legislature, we'd been bracing for gridlock, so we're pleased with how hard our local delegation worked on behalf of us all," said County Board Chair Mike Jugovich. "In addition to our county's legislative priorities, we're thankful for property tax relief legislation, investments in housing and homeless prevention aid, and progress towards establishing a framework for helium production - all of which will benefit our residents."
Among the priorities addressed that benefit St. Louis County and all counties across the state:
- Modernization of human services technology systems - the state has dedicated $90 million to improve efficiency, usability and data integration of the outdated systems that St. Louis County and all counties in the state must use. The systems modernization is expected to take several years to complete.
- Funding for federal cost shifts in SNAP and Medicaid - the state is partially addressing this for the next year with one-time funds. St. Louis County will continue working with the state to identify solutions for 2027 and beyond.
- Resource the MN African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (“The Act”) - the state is providing limited funding to assist with costs in the first year of implementation. Identification of adequate funding to ensure compliance with process, training and timelines remains a priority for St. Louis County as it works with state agencies and legislators.
- Amend language affecting medical staff and the healthcare offered at the Jail - updated language ensures individuals receive the quality care they need while incarcerated.
St. Louis County leaders also expressed gratitude for the bonding dollars that will help fund infrastructure and economic development projects in numerous cities throughout the county, as well as projects the county supported for the Duluth Airport Authority, 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center, and the Union Gospel Mission. The County is also appreciative of investments in road and bridge funding statewide.
"This was a challenging session, but it was very encouraging to see the commitment of our local representatives and senators as they advocated on our behalf," said County Administrator Kevin Gray. "The legislative process is never easy, and our County Commissioners, leadership team and staff remained engaged throughout the session. We look forward to continuing to work toward long-term solutions that will ease the burden for our property taxpayers."
