As the gavel fell on another contentious legislative session, Minnesota Catholic Conference (MCC) is grateful to report that faithful, principled advocacy continues to make a real impact in shaping public policy at the Minnesota State Capitol.
In a year marked by budget shortfalls, partisan rancor and a compressed legislative calendar, the bishops of Minnesota, the staff of MCC, and Catholics across the state stood up to say that the growth of the family and care for the vulnerable still matter in public life. Together, we helped deliver key policy victories that affirm human dignity and promote the common good. These successes were made possible by the prayers, engagement and voices of Catholic Advocacy Network members.
Key victories
This session, MCC focused its work on defending the poor and marginalized, protecting life and conscience rights, and advancing policies that promote human flourishing.
Among the highlights was stopping cuts to nonpublic school pupil aid. Despite the state’s fiscal constraints, approximately $55 million in annual funding for nonpublic school student services, such as busing, counseling, and nursing, was preserved. This amounts to more than $1,000 per nonpublic school student for essential services that uphold parental choice in education.
In addition, MCC helped stop legislation that would require insurance plans to cover in vitro fertilization. The conference raised concerns about the ethical implications of the proposal, its cost to taxpayers and the threats it posed to religious liberty. Lawmakers took those concerns seriously, and the mandate did not advance.
Efforts to legalize sports betting also failed to gain traction in either chamber of the Legislature. MCC continues to emphasize that expanding gambling harms families, especially those who are financially vulnerable, and compromises the integrity of sports.
Another significant achievement was ensuring health care access for undocumented children. In a strong example of bipartisan cooperation, lawmakers recognized the moral obligation to make sure children, regardless of immigration status, receive basic health care outside of the emergency room.
Finally, the state’s new Child Tax Credit, a proven anti-poverty measure, remained intact. No serious proposals were brought forward to cut it, and there was growing bipartisan interest in expanding this important support for families.
Looking ahead
These victories are a testament to the enduring power of Catholic social teaching when shared clearly, respectfully and persistently in the public square. MCC’s advocacy goal is to propose sound policies rooted in reality and right reason, and to foster common ground for the common good.
While not every goal was achieved, MCC remains committed to returning next year with data, testimony and a renewed moral appeal.
Whether you contacted your legislator, attended an event, or offered your prayers, you helped build a culture of life and dignity in our state. Let this session’s outcomes serve as a powerful reminder: When Catholics engage in the public arena with clarity and charity, we can move the needle toward a more just society.
To stay informed and act on issues that impact life, dignity and the common good, join the Catholic Advocacy Network at mncatholic.org/join.
Inside the Capitol is a legislative update from Minnesota Catholic Conference staff.
