On May 6, the CGMC and representatives from LIUNA Minnesota & North Dakota and St. Paul Regional Water Services held a joint press conference alongside legislative capital investment leaders calling for continued state investment in lead line replacement programs. Participants urged lawmakers to pass a bonding bill this session to ensure communities can continue to address their water and other infrastructure needs.
As the Legislature approaches the end of the 2026 session, current funding for lead line replacement programs will run out in 2027, with thousands of Minnesotans at continued risk of lead exposure from their drinking water infrastructure. Each stakeholder spoke to the critical needs of bonding funds in their communities and industries, highlighting the impact on health, jobs, and economic vitality.
CGMC Executive Director Bradley Peterson emphasized the difficult position many cities face, particularly in Greater Minnesota. “Minnesota needs at least $150 million to stay on track for the 2037 federal EPA deadline to replace lead service lines. Many communities with shovel-ready projects did not receive the funds they need, and demand continues to grow,” said Peterson. “Minnesota has an estimated minimum of 100,000 lead service lines. This is a statewide problem. Cities across Greater Minnesota, including Brainerd, Winona, Moorhead, and Duluth, have identified lines needing replacement. There is no time to waste.”
The four legislative caucuses and Gov. Walz have proposed investing a range of $700 million to $1.4 billion for infrastructure needs, but leaders have yet to announce an agreement. During the press conference, Senate Capital Investment Chair Sen. Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. Paul) noted that the Senate DFL is asking for $100 million for lead lines. With just about 10 days left until the session ends, House Capital Investment Co-Chair Rep. Fue Lee (DFL-Minneapolis) said he thinks leaders have a “self-imposed” deadline of “maybe” this weekend.
Our efforts to bring attention to bonding needs and what they mean for our communities have resulted in news coverage from multiple sources. As the clock ticks down on the 2026 session, the CGMC will continue to push for a bonding bill that includes significant investment in lead line replacement, as well as funding for other critical infrastructure projects.
Click the buttons below to view the press release and press conference video. For questions about bonding, please contact CGMC Lobbyist Elizabeth Wefel (eawefel@flaherty-hood.com) or Executive Director Bradley Peterson (bmpeterson@flaherty-hood.com).
