ST. PAUL - As the 2024 Legislative Session begins, State Representative Paul Torkelson (R-Hanska) said stabilizing Minnesota’s economy should be at the top of lawmakers’ to-do lists.
“A year ago, we watched as the Democrat-controlled legislature spent a nearly $20 billion surplus, raised taxes by another $10 billion, and increased government spending by 40%,” Torkelson said. “Because of this, Minnesota is now projected to face a $2.3 billion budget deficit in our next budget cycle. By making some common sense decisions now, the legislature could alleviate this problem before it starts.”
As this is a bonding year, Torkelson said he expects a capital investment bill that borrows money to fund needed construction projects across the state to be debated. However, the legislature approved a more than $2 billion bonding package last year, so Torkelson said it will be interesting to gauge lawmakers’ interest in potentially passing another proposal this session.
Torkelson also noted that the Democrat majority has already held hearings or press conferences on a number of more controversial proposals they will be pushing this session, including legally assisted suicide and making Minnesota a sanctuary state.
“There will likely be many other topics debated at the Capitol over the next three months, and I strongly encourage residents to share their thoughts with me on any legislative issue,” Torkelson said.
Rep. Torkelson can be reached by phone at 651-296-9303 or by email at rep.paul.torkelson@house.mn.gov.