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Dear neighbors,
House DFLers are still working to reach an agreement with our colleagues from the Senate. Finding a strong compromise is difficult, but we will keep fighting for action on urgent issues like police accountability and climate change and critical investments that will help Minnesotans emerge from the pandemic and thrive once it’s behind us.
Yesterday was Statehood Day in Minnesota and a beautiful day at the Capitol.
American Rescue Plan Funding Headed to Minnesota
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced on Monday that Minnesota will receive nearly $5 billion of state and local aid. Thanks to the American Rescue Plan that Congress and the Biden administration approved earlier this year, the state will receive $2.8 billion – about $200 million more than anticipated – and local governments will get $2.1 billion. While some of the funding is earmarked for specific purposes like rental assistance or small business loans, the remaining funds can be used for a variety of needs. This flexibility will allow governments to coordinate and address unique needs in communities across Minnesota.
I’ll keep you updated as we receive more information about these funds and how they’ll be used to help Minnesotans. Please stay tuned!
Monthly State Revenue Report Released
According to the latest update from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB), state revenue in April was $189 million (6.4 percent) lower than expected. While a dip in revenue can be concerning, this year’s numbers are a bit unusual. State revenue projections for April include income tax payments from all Minnesotans. However, some folks are delaying their payments this year because Minnesota extended the income tax deadline from mid April to May 17. Annual revenue is still $374 million higher than anticipated.
Legislative Audit Commission Selects Topics for Consideration
Minnesota’s Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) reviews state agencies and programs to ensure they’re working effectively. I’m proud to serve on the Legislative Audit Commission, a bipartisan group of lawmakers that selects topics for the OLA to review. Last week, we selected 15 potential topics. You can view a list of them on the OLA’s website.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Minnesota Waters
Finally, I hope those of you getting ready for fishing opener have a safe and enjoyable weekend! I encourage you to take a few minutes to review Minnesota’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) laws and other steps you should take to prevent these species from spreading. Your actions can help protect our lakes and rivers for many years to come.
I hope you’ll continue sharing your input and let me know if I can be of assistance. It’s an honor to represent you.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
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