Walz signs ‘One Minnesota Budget’ as Democrats celebrate their top goals becoming law

@ap.news Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signs a ban on so-called conversion therapy during a ceremony at the State Capitol in St. Paul, Minn., on Thursday, July 15, 2021. Walz said conversion therapy, the scientifically discredited practice of using therapy to “convert” LGBTQ people to heterosexuality or traditional gender expectations, is a “byzantine, tortuous practice.” He said his order empowers state agencies to ensure that no Minnesotans under age 18 are subjected to it, and that insurance companies and state health plans don’t cover it. (AP Photo/Steve Karnowski)

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz has signed twelve bills that are part of his $72 billion state budget for the next two years. The so-called “One Minnesota Budget” includes funding for free school meals to kids and free tuition at public colleges for students whose families earn less than $80,000 a year. Among many other measures, the budget also establishes a paid family and medical leave program and offers health insurance to people without legal immigration status. The governor said the budget will make Minnesota more fair, inclusive and prosperous. Republicans said the budget does not reflect their priorities.