On Monday, the Senate passed legislation that would hold cities accountable to pay their mutual aid agreements and prevent Governor Walz from diverting funds away from education and healthcare to cover cities’ public safety costs that defund the police. 

“Communities that rise to support their neighbors in the time of civil unrest should not be left on the hook for the protection they provide,” Senator Rich Draheim (R-Madison Lake) said. “The reform passed yesterday ensures that these obligations are met and allows law enforcement to rise to the challenge should Minnesota see further rioting when the trials begin in the coming months.”

Following the bill’s passage, Governor Walz, via his spokesperson, Mr. Tschann, issued a statement accusing Senate Republicans of voting to defund the police. This was after House Democrats failed to pass their own version of the legislation on the same day. 

“Minnesota Law enforcement plays a critical role in the protection of our residents and the laws of our state,” Senator Draheim continued. “Governor Walz’s accusation is completely unfounded and is contrary to the policy direction of parties in our state. As Democrats across Minnesota have moved to undermine and remove police in Minnesota, Senate Republicans continue to stand behind law enforcement and the invaluable support they provide to our communities.”