St. Paul, Minnesota — Minnesota House DFL leaders and legislators released the framework and targets for their Minnesota Values Budget today. The budget includes significant investments in education, affordable health care, and safe & inclusive communities to build a Minnesota that works better for everyone.
“Our budget will strengthen communities across the state through honest investments to improve education opportunities, support our families, and increase economic prosperity no matter where in the state you live, or what you look like,” said Speaker Melissa Hortman. “We are investing in the people of Minnesota, because everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed.”
The budget includes:
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A $900 million increase in E-12 Education and a $300 million increase in higher education, helping ensure all Minnesotans have access to a world-class education. Investments in higher education will go toward a tuition freeze at our public colleges and universities.
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Health insurance discounts that go directly to consumers and a pathway to a public health care option.
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Significant investments to address economic security for families, the quality of our air, water, and land, the threat of climate change, the need for gun violence prevention, and racial inequity.
“Republican majorities continue to prioritize corporations, the wealthy, and insurance companies — underfunding our schools, transportation, health care, and more — leaving future budget gaps,” said Majority Leader Ryan Winkler. “House DFLers will correct the destructive Republican budgeting.”
“Minnesotans care about each other, and want to see one another succeed,” said Majority Whip Liz Olson. “The House DFL budget invests in the areas Minnesotans have told us they value, and will help improve the lives of people across the state.”
The Minnesota Values budget ensures the security of the Health Care Access Fund, protecting health care for more than a million Minnesotans. To fund needed investments in education and transportation, the budget closes corporate tax loopholes, asks the wealthy to pay their fair share, and includes a 20 cent increase in the gas tax.
“We should be honest about the choices in front of us,” added Majority Leader Winkler. “We can continue down the path of tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy, leading to more teacher layoffs, potholes, and people losing health care and basic economic security. Or we can make honest investments in the things Minnesotans care about: affordable health care, great schools, and good and reliable roads, bridges, and transit. The House DFL is committed to responsible budgeting and building a brighter future for all Minnesotans.”