May 30, 2017 – We are relieved that – after immense amounts of organizing and public pressure – Governor Dayton kept his promise to protect Minnesotan workers and families by vetoing the corporate power grab known as “preemption” of local democracy. It was especially cruel for legislative leaders to tie preemption to important benefits such as pension increases, paid parental leave for state employees and additional protections from wage theft.

ISAIAH clergy and leaders fought hard and won the nation’s best sick time policy for Minneapolis and St. Paul. Thanks to their efforts, allies, and Gov. Dayton’s veto today, 150,000 workers, will have access to Earned Sick and Safe Time on July 1st. Many families will be able to take off when ill or to care for a sick child. Cities have also maintained their ability to govern their communities in ways that are best for their constituents, including raising wages for workers and closing the wage gap for communities of color. This is most certainly a victory – not just for people of faith and those who have fought hard for this, but for all of Minnesota.