Minnsights Blog

Minnesota experienced significant shifts in immigration patterns this decade. Following a sharp decline in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, international migration rebounded strongly in subsequent years. Recent U.S. Census Bureau data reveals a notable surge in international migration to Minnesota, with nearly 30,000 new arrivals recorded between July 2023 and July 2024—two and a half times the average annual levels of the previous decade. From 2020 to 2024, over 81,000 new Americans moved to Minnesota, making immigration the primary driver of population change and contributing to 94% of the state’s net growth during this period.

Last Friday, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that a quorum in the Minnesota House is 68 members, not the 67 that House Republicans had been operating under since the session began on January 14. This decision means that the first few weeks of hearings, bill introductions, and legislative work now appear to be invalidated by the courts.

Manufacturing companies have thin margins and are sensitive to costs. Facility and equipment, talent and training, inputs and supplies are all part of the cost equation. But so are costs imposed by government which manufacturers typically have very little control over.

We at the Chamber are keeping a close eye on the legislative session currently underway. This week, the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee heard testimony from the Minnesota Chamber and the Minnesota Chamber Foundation.

As we enter a new legislative chapter this year, the uncertainty surrounding the balance of power in the House has caused some initial drama. However, we expect these issues to be resolved, enabling progress during this legislative session. Last fall’s state elections spoke volumes about what matters most to Minnesotans: the economy and costs. Minnesotans desire a balanced approach to governance, and the business community shares this expectation for our elected officials. Bipartisan solutions are crucial to improving our economy, lowering costs for families and businesses, and addressing the challenges facing our state.