Dear Neighbors,
Budget Forecast
This week, we learned the state should have a $329 million budget surplus. While legislative Democrats said our tax relief proposal would drain state resources, we’re still seeing a growing economy all while families are keeping more of their hard-earned paychecks. With the surplus, we have to continue to be mindful of taxpayers to ensure the state’s economy and budget remain stable.
MNLARS
It hasn’t been all good news early on in session. Since July, our state’s licensing system, MNLARS, has been a mess. Outages, glitches, and months-long waits for simple things like transferring a vehicle title have become all-too-common. These problems persist even after those in charge of MNLARS spent 10 years and nearly $100 million to build this failing program.
Now, state agencies are coming back to the legislature asking for $43 million more of taxpayer dollars in the hope of salvaging MNLARS. We have to be clear: this shouldn’t be on the taxpayers to fix. Enough money has been wasted, the state shouldn’t be asking for more. This is a topic we’ll continue to address as we attempt to help MNLARS leaders identify and solve the numerous issues.
Local Visits
I met with some Girl Scout constituents this week as well as four Coon Rapids firemen. The firemen were thankful for the help I provided on getting bonding dollars for the at grade rail crossing on Hanson Blvd.
Please Contact Me
I hope you’ll enjoy our 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