Sen. Zach Duckworth

Maddy summaryThis bill (SF 356) increases the reemployment earnings limit for public safety officers (police, firefighters, paramedics) receiving disability benefits under Minnesota's public employee retirement plan. It amends Minnesota Statutes § 353.656, subdivision 4, raising the threshold at which disability benefits are reduced when recipients work part-time. Specifically, the limit is set at 150% of the base monthly salary for similar positions with their employer, meaning officers can earn more before benefits are adjusted. This change directly affects current disability benefit recipients who return to partial work, providing greater financial flexibility.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $9 million from state bond proceeds to fund hangar construction at Minnesota airports. The funds will be deposited into a dedicated revolving account managed by the commissioner of transportation, as authorized under Minnesota law. The state will issue bonds up to $9 million to cover this appropriation, following standard bond issuance procedures for capital projects. This is a funding mechanism for infrastructure, not a policy change affecting specific groups or services.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $35 million from state bond proceeds to fund Minnesota town roads and bridges. Specifically, $25 million is allocated for town roads and $10 million for town bridges, to be distributed by the commissioner of transportation per existing law (Minnesota Statutes 162.081). The state will sell bonds up to $35 million under established bond procedures to cover these costs. The funds directly support local infrastructure maintenance for Minnesota's town governments.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $100 million from the general fund for the Corridors of Commerce program in fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The funds are directed to the Minnesota Department of Transportation commissioner to support the program's existing operations under Minnesota Statutes section 161.088. The bill provides no new policy changes, only funding for a program focused on transportation infrastructure improvements.

Maddy summarySF 180 creates a new civil liability for intentionally obstructing public highways in Minnesota. It allows injured individuals to sue for damages, reasonable attorney fees, and costs if someone intentionally interferes with or makes a highway dangerous. The bill exempts law enforcement, emergency responders, and utility workers acting within their duties, and gives state agencies the choice between civil lawsuits or criminal prosecution for the same highway obstruction. This law takes effect August 1, 2025, and applies to incidents occurring on or after that date (Minnesota Statutes § 169.907).

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies state laws to strengthen awareness and support for library services designed for blind and print-disabled individuals in Minnesota. It requires the Department of Education to create an accessible online resource hub and collaborate with other state agencies to inform the public about available services like braille and audio books. Additionally, the legislation establishes an advisory committee composed of library users to guide long-term planning and ensure the library effectively reaches its target community.