Principled advocacy from faithful citizens proves effective in advancing policies rooted in human dignity
Source: Minnesota Catholic Conference
After the conclusion of the Minnesota Legislature’s special session, Minnesota Catholic Conference (MCC) celebrates a series of important policy victories that affirm human dignity and advance the common good. These accomplishments underscore the vital role faith-based organizations play in shaping public policy and protecting foundational values in the public square.
“Once again, Minnesota Catholic Conference was at the center of Minnesota’s most consequential legislative debates, securing key victories in a contentious session marked by a cloudy budget forecast and fierce competition for funding,” said Jason Adkins, executive director of Minnesota Catholic Conference. “Thanks to the constant prayers and advocacy of Minnesota Catholics, the bishops and MCC staff were able to advance the common good and protect the most vulnerable among us.”
In a time of political polarization and looming budget challenges, MCC demonstrates that principled advocacy, rooted in Catholic social teaching, can still produce meaningful results.
Despite a challenging fiscal landscape, MCC secured the following key victories:
- Protected Nonpublic Pupil Aid
Approximately $55 million dollars a year (over $1000 allotted per student) for essential services to nonpublic school students (busing, counseling, textbooks, nursing) were maintained
- Stopped the Legalization of Sports Gambling
Multiple bills in the Senate failed to pass even one committee; no hearings in the House
- Prevented Cuts to the Child Tax Credit
No proposed cuts were given serious consideration, and members of both parties were advocating the expansion of this successful aid to families
- Ensured Healthcare Access for Undocumented Children
Both parties recognized the moral imperative to ensure that all children could receive basic healthcare outside of an emergency-room setting
- Halted IVF Insurance Mandate
Required insurance coverage for IVF would have cost taxpayer dollars, raised insurance premiums for everyone, and threatened religious liberty
“MCC policy positions are not inherently religious positions, but sound principles rooted in reality that are in accord with right reason and accessible to all,” said Adkins. “Our advocacy model is to propose these policies and foster common ground for the common good. We are glad when we can persuade members of all backgrounds as to the justice or injustice of particular legislation. Where we fall short, such as protecting access to health insurance for our undocumented adults, we will continue to be faithful in our duty of advocacy.”
