Committees are where lawmakers focus on specific issue areas such as education, health, and labor.
Prior to developing policy, committees hold hearings to gather perspectives from non-elected experts, families, educators, and agency leaders, and then review research and data to discuss what’s working and what merits attention. There are three hearings happening this week:
1. Oversight, Education, & Federal Funding Priorities
The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform will hold a hearing on March 4, titled “Oversight of Fraud and Misuse of Federal Funds in Minnesota: Part II.”
Digging Deeper - Following an investigation launched in December 2025 regarding allegations that involve federal funds used for social services programs, the hearing will feature testimony from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison.
2. Education & Workforce Pathways
Also on March 4, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies will convene a hearing focused on the role of community colleges in meeting future workforce and education needs.
Digging Deeper - The discussion is expected to explore how postsecondary institutions support students and respond to changing economic and workforce demands.
3. FY27 Funding Priorities
On March 5, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies will hold its annual Member Day.
Digging Deeper - During this session, lawmakers testify to their colleagues on the subcommittee about their respective priorities and concerns related to programs funded through the Labor-HHS-Education bill, which includes Head Start and other services supporting children, families, and communities.
