Public Policy

Advancing policies that strengthen the nonprofit sector and Minnesota communities

MCN and the Minnesota Budget Project policy teams advance public policies that strengthen the nonprofit sector and Minnesota communities through policy development and analysis, and by engaging nonprofits, other organizational partners, and the public to lift up our shared vision for a just, equitable Minnesota.

Our policy work is informed by MCN’s strategic priority on equity and justice.

Advocacy & Public Policy Resources

Nonprofits play a central role in the democratic process by providing a means for individuals to deliberate on public policies and decisions that affect them. At MCN, we are continuously working to provide resources and tools you need to engage in effective advocacy and public policy work at your nonprofit.

Latest

Policy Updates

U.S. Senate passes deal to replenish COVID-19 relief funding

April 23, 2020

The U.S. Senate passed legislation on Tuesday, April 21 to replenish funding for several coronavirus small-business relief programs. The House is expected to take up a vote on the measure later on Thursday, April 23.

Under the Senate agreement, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will receive $310 billion in new funds, while the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) fund will receive an additional $50 billion. The bill sets aside $60 billion of PPP funding exclusively for small and medium-sized community banks. The Senate bill also contains $25 billion for coronavirus testing and $75 billion for hospitals. Nonprofit Quarterly's Steve Dubb recently detailed "What's Included, What's Not" in the bill.  

Quick Guidance for Nonprofits on the PPP and EIDL

  • If you’ve already applied for an EIDL: The SBA is processing applications already in their system on a first-come, first-served basis. You do not need to reapply.
  • If you have not already applied for an EIDL: Check back at the SBA application page once the additional funding is signed into law. The SBA will re-open applications shortly afterwards.
  • If you’ve already applied for a PPP loan through an SBA lender but have not been approved yet: Check with your lender to see if they are maintaining a queue of applications during the lapse or if you will need to reapply when the renewed funding comes through.
  • If you have not applied yet for a PPP loan through an SBA lender: Have the application form filled out and your documentation ready to provide to your lender. (For nonprofits with employees, have payroll documentation; for independent contractors, have your 2019 Form 1040, Schedule C, and 1099-MISC.) If you have an existing relationship with an SBA lender, you should go to that lender first once the program reopens, but be prepared to try multiple lenders, which you can find on the SBA site.



Policy Spotlight


State Grant Reform


Each year the state of Minnesota grants about $500 million to nonprofits to provide essential services. Changes in oversight of state-funded grants to nonprofits continues to be a topic at the Legislature. 

Nonprofits must be included in implementing any and all reform efforts.

Working toward equitable grantmaking

Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)


A state-administered PFML program was signed into law May 2023, and allows nonprofits to be competitive employers, all Minnesotans to take time off to care for themselves and their families, boosts the economy, and advances racial equity.

PFML benefits and premiums start January 1, 2026.

What nonprofits need to know

Nonprofit SEAT Act


Nonprofits have extensive experience and insights that can benefit everyone in a more collaborative government-nonprofit partnership.

The Nonprofit SEAT Act enhances nonprofits' ability to address public challenges and maximize opportunities to advance our mission in every community across the country.

Sign your nonprofit's support





Legislative Successes and Past Campaigns

Since its founding in 1987, MCN has been recognized for exemplary work at the state legislature and as a source of training on relationships and advocacy between nonprofits and government.  The number and subject matter of MCN’s public policy positions has grown over time. Learn more about some of the campaigns and successes over MCN's history of public policy work.