Tornadoes touch down in Marion, Plainview

MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all. 

Turn Up Your Support

DFL Gov. Mark Dayton today announced more changes in his cabinet for his second term.

Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Jim Schowalter is stepping down to take a new job as president and CEO of the Minnesota Council of Health Plans. He’s leaving after 20 years in state government.

Schowlater’s replacement at MMB will be Myron Frans, who is currently the state revenue commissioner. Frans’ replacement is Cynthia Bauerly, who is currently the deputy revenue commissioner.

Schowalter said he’s leaving a great job that he described as “an honor of a lifetime.” But he said he’s looking forward to his new position.

“Health care policy is the issue of our day and getting a chance to work with our state’s nonprofit health systems, it’s going to be a great experience,” Schowalter said.

The announcement comes less than a week after the release of a new state economic forecast showed a projected $1 billion surplus for the coming biennium. Schowalter said the improved fiscal picture made this a good time for a change.

In a news release, Dayton thanked Schowalter for “wise counsel” and “tremendous fiscal expertise.” He praised Frans for showing “superb ability” to manage state finances, and said Bauerly is well prepared for her new responsibilities.

Dayton must still fill commissioner vacancies for the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board, Metropolitan Council and MN.IT.

Politics and Government News

Capitol View®

Tim Pugmire

Author

  DFL Gov. Mark Dayton today announced more changes in his cabinet for his second term. Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Jim Schowalter is stepping down to take a new job as president and CEO of the Minnesota Council of Health Plans. He’s leaving after 20 years in state government. Schowlater’s replacement at MMB will…

Schowalter leaving as state finance chief

Go Deeper.

Like this?

News you can use in your inbox