MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey vetoed two ordinances passed by the city council — one that would have decriminalized the possession of drug paraphernalia, and another that was the council’s second attempt to extend the city’s eviction notice timeline in the wake of Operation Metro Surge. Both vetoes have since stood. The council was unable to muster enough votes to override either measure. The Eviction Veto The council’s latest eviction proposal would have extended the pre-eviction notice period to 45 days. Frey had previously vetoed a 30-day extension. In his veto letter Frey reiterated that he believes rental assistance is the best way to support renters, writing “I am not convinced that more time will result in improved outcomes.” Housing advocates point to a 60 percent spike in Minneapolis eviction filings in March 2026 compared to March 2025 as evidence that the city needs stronger tenant protections. The Drug Paraphernalia Veto Frey also vetoed the council’s ordinance that would have decriminalized drug paraphernalia possession, bringing city law into alignment with state law. Frey explained he vetoed it because enforcement of possession allows officers to investigate drug offenses upstream, stating “I remain a firm believer in harm reduction, but we need every tool available to combat addiction and related quality-of-life issues.” Council Member Robin Wonsley fired back, accusing Frey of choosing “fear mongering propaganda over evidence-based public health strategies” and calling the vetoes “deflection and avoidance.” These were Frey’s third and fourth vetoes of 2026. Council President Elliott Payne called it “a sad day for the most vulnerable residents in our city.” NCN will continue monitoring developments at Minneapolis City Hall. 📍 Minneapolis, MN 🗓️ May 2026 Real Stories. Real Impact. Across America. — National Correspondent Network