The Grand Rapids Herald Review posts a recap of the Legislative session from Representative Sandy Layman (5B)…

The 2019 legislative session concluded last month, following a one-day special session that saw legislators approve a new, two-year state budget.

For those following the five months of public hearings and debate, it was difficult to see how session would end with DFL and Republican budget proposals so far apart. As it turned out, the final agreement was reached by a threesome that came to be known as the “tribunal” – Governor Walz, Senate Majority Leader Gazelka and Speaker of the House Hortman. This closed-door process has been rightly criticized, but it ultimately delivered positive outcomes in the form of the compromised budget signed by the governor.

She highlights planned broadband investment…

A priority of mine has been investing in critical broadband infrastructure for rural communities like ours. I championed these efforts again this year as we provided an additional $40 million for broadband expansion in rural Minnesota. Although I would have liked to invest more, these dollars will go a long way in boosting rural economies, helping small businesses, and expanding educational opportunities.