Dear Neighbor,
Before we get to the latest news from the House, I want to congratulate area wrestlers who placed at the recent state meet: First place: CLASS A: Carson Gilbert, BBE, 215 pounds; Trey Gunderson, KMS, 139 … Second place: CLASS AA: Miles Wildman, Minnewaska, 121 … Third place: CLASS A: Noah Jensen, BBE, 107 … Fourth place: CLASS A: Bret DeRoo, BBE, 160; Jett Olson, KMS, 172 … Fifth place: CLASS A; Max Nygaard, Benson, 139.
Congratulations to all and good luck to our other winter sports athletes during their own postseason competitions.
As for official business, this week we received an updated state economic forecast showing a smaller short-term surplus and a growing deficit on the horizon.
This includes a $456 million projected balance for 2026-27, down $160 million from previous estimates. Meanwhile, the projected general fund shortfall for the 2028-29 biennium is now $6 billion – $852 million worse than November estimates and nearly a state-record deficit. Overall, state spending growth outpaces revenue growth through projections for fiscal year 2029, which comes as no surprise after the state budget was increased by 40 percent in 2023.
While it is good we aren't facing an immediate shortfall as we prepare to set a new budget this session, it is important to acknowledge the budget that was set last biennium is unsustainable. Steps need to be taken to prevent a major shortfall in the future, starting with a balanced approach and common-sense decisions that serve the best interests of all Minnesotans.
The forecast figures will serve as the framework for legislators to set a new two-year state budget before adjourning in late May. It will be interesting to see how this plays out over the next couple of months with House Republicans providing more balance after two years of one-party control in St. Paul.
Action on the House floor this week included discussion of the Preserving Girls Sports Act, which was presented by House Republicans to support safe and fair competition for girls in school-sanctioned athletics. Unfortunately, House Democrats blocked the bill from passing, which allows biological males to continue participating in girls sports.
Their vote against this bill does a disservice to our girls and their ability to have safe and fair competitions. It seems to be common sense that biological males should not be playing girls sports, which is the position shared by the overwhelming public majority.
Polls show around 80 percent of people agree with the bill’s position. Even though House Democrats prevented the bill from passing, House Republicans tabled it to keep it at the front desk available for future reconsideration.
Look for more from the Capitol soon. Until next time, have a good weekend with temperatures continuing to rise and this week’s snow melting away.
Sincerely,
Paul