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

Nonprofits Urged to Contact MN Senators Regarding Health Care Funding

May 09, 2019
Minnesota’s health care provider tax was created more than 25 years ago to increase access to affordable health care. As a result of this and other measures, Minnesota has one of highest rates of insurance coverage in the nation, and more than one million Minnesotans have affordable health care coverage funded in part by the provider tax.

But without action this legislative session, this essential source of funding will expire at the end of this year. That revenue loss of about $700 million per year would put at risk the health care of thousands of Minnesotans, and put pressure on every area of the state budget.

The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN) has joined more than 150 Minnesota organizations in supporting the provider tax. It’s an essential funding source for nonprofits who deliver health care services in their communities. And the provider tax has a critical role to play in addressing the particular health care challenges in Greater Minnesota and tackling the state’s health disparities.

MCN urges nonprofits throughout Minnesota to contact policymakers and ask that they maintain the provider tax and keep moving forward toward becoming a state where everyone can thrive, regardless of who they are or where they live.

Please call your member of the Minnesota Senate and tell them:
  • Don’t let the sun set on Minnesota health care; protect the provider tax.
  • Tell your Senator why access to affordable health care is important to your organization, the people you serve, and your community.
You can find out who represents your area and how to contact them here: www.gis.leg.mn/iMaps/districts. And if your organization is one that pays the 2 percent provider tax, please consider taking an additional step by signing on to a letter of Providers for the Provider Tax.



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.