Dear Neighbors,
Things are continuing to move quickly at the Capitol, and that will only increase once we start putting together our budget bills. Here’s an update from our week in St. Paul.
Budget Surplus
On Tuesday, MMB announced that Minnesota is set to have a $1.65 billion surplus. While this is certainly better than running up a deficit, it’s important to understand WHY we have these excess funds: the state has been taking too much in taxes out of your family’s budget. Plain and simple, we need to ease the tax burden on Minnesotans. We’re long overdue for substantial tax relief instead of continuing to tax and spend as liberal lawmakers are prone to do.
Now that we have a budget forecast, the House, Senate, and governor will be pushing their budget initiatives. I look forward to supporting budget bills that provide tax relief and fund top priorities like health care and education.
Bill Hearing
We have deadlines in the House where we must hear bills in committee if we want them to move forward. Thankfully, one of my bills, HF1185, was heard in committee this week. The legislation would change data retention laws for the various government entities in the state. I’m a supporter of more transparent and responsive government, and these changes would help to make officials more accountable to Minnesotans.
Prayer Breakfast
This morning, I attended the 23rd Annual Mayors’ Prayer Breakfast at Constance Free Church here in Andover. This amazing event benefits Youth First Community of Promise which provides essential services to kids who are struggling at school or at home.
I hope you’ll enjoy another spring-like warmup this weekend! If you have something on your mind and would like to chat, please call or email my office.
Best,
Peggy