St. Paul, MN – Representative Wayne Johnson (R-Cottage Grove) expressed strong concerns today regarding Governor Tim Walz’s recently proposed budget, calling it "short-sighted" and "lacking the foresight needed to address Minnesota’s long-term needs."
"As a former County Commissioner for Washington County, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of the state shifting financial burdens onto local governments," said Rep. Johnson. "This budget continues that trend by placing additional strain on counties, schools, and property taxpayers while failing to address critical cost-of-living issues for Minnesotans."
Key Concerns Highlighted by Rep. Johnson:
- Cost Shifting: Proposed cuts to programs like the Minnesota Sex Offender Program, disability waiver services, and the Behavioral Health Fund would increase county costs by $200 million per biennium.
- Cannabis Aid Elimination: Removing local cannabis aid will hinder counties and cities in implementing new laws and requirements.
- Mandate Funding: In 2024, Washington County reported $195 million in costs for mandated services, with $95 million funded through property taxes. Johnson emphasized that "the state should fully fund the programs it mandates."
"State government must be transparent with taxpayers," Johnson stated. "If a program is important enough to mandate, it’s important enough to fund at the state level. Passing costs down to local governments only hides the true cost of state programs."
Rep. Johnson reaffirmed his commitment to finding responsible solutions for Minnesotans. "We teach our kids to be honest and accountable—government should be held to the same standard. It’s time for a better plan that serves Minnesotans without burdening property taxpayers unfairly."
House Republicans have repeatedly said that there will be no new tax increases during the 2025 legislative session, especially after the previous two years. During the 2023-2024 sessions, the entirety of an $18 billion tax surplus was spent, and over $10 billion in new taxes were added to the already stretched-thin wallets of Minnesota families.
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