Politics and Government News

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No special session? No matching money for federal construction funds
Minnesota’s share of some federal infrastructure money could be at risk if state lawmakers don’t resolve their impasse on a major spending bill that included required state matching funds. 
Mass shootings are so common that mayors now have a checklist for when one happens
Mass shootings have become so common in the U.S. that one group has created a mass shooting protocol checklist to guide mayors and city officials during the first 24 hours after a tragedy occurs.
Political realties have stopped legislative action after school shootings
The political climate has changed drastically since a 10-year assault weapons ban passed in 1994. The lack of political will and other barriers stand in the way of it even coming to a vote today.
Standstill persists over special session, gun laws
Prospects are murky for a special legislative session to finalize plans for tax cuts and new spending from Minnesota’s big budget surplus. Meanwhile, there is no expectation of major state gun law changes in the aftermath of the Texas school shooting.
Will Congress act on guns after Sandy Hook, Buffalo, Uvalde?
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has quickly set in motion a pair of firearms background check bills in response to the school massacre in Texas. But the Democrat acknowledged Wednesday the refusal for years of Congress to pass any legislation aiming to curb a national epidemic of gun violence.
Biden signs policing order on anniversary of Floyd's death
President Joe Biden signed an executive order Wednesday to improve accountability in policing —a meaningful but limited action on the second anniversary of George Floyd's death that reflected the challenges in addressing racism, excessive use of force and public safety when Congress is deadlocked on stronger measures.