Dear Friends,
Despite record inflation and higher prices for gas and groceries, the House DFL is still trying to increase government spending by more than $21 for every $1 in tax cuts. Our $9.3 billion surplus is clear evidence that our state has a taxing problem. From now until the end of session, I will be fighting for permanent, meaningful tax reform. But I need your help to do it. I want to hear from you. Please send me your stories about how the rapidly increasing cost of living is impacting your family budget or business. You can email your tales of insane gas prices and supply chain headaches to rep.mary.franson@house.mn. I look forward to hearing from you!
Avian Flu Relief
Yesterday, the House and Senate acted quickly to help our farmers amidst the rising cases of avian flu. Minnesota is one of the top poultry producers in the country. Although the avian flu is deadly for chickens, poultry products are still safe to consume. One million dollars in funding was passed yesterday to help the Department of Agriculture cover avian flu-related expenses. You can learn more about protecting your flocks here.
I am pleased that we were able to pass this relief quickly, however, I am incredibly disappointed that we still have not voted on drought relief. Members of the House DFL caucus, led by Rep. Rick Hansen, are holding up drought relief in order to ask for more money for the DNR. Once again, the DFL is playing politics instead of helping people who are truly in need.
DFL Gets in the Way of Public Safety Reform
Earlier this session, House Republicans unveiled our public safety proposals which aimed at holding criminals accountable, recruiting and retaining police officers, and providing transparency and accountability in our criminal justice system. While the Senate has acted on several of our proposals, the Chair of the House Public Safety Committee has refused to hear GOP or even DFL bills that target violent crime or recruiting and retaining peace officers.
It is incredible that despite rising crime across Minnesota, the House DFL is ignoring the issue. When we return from our Easter/Passover recess, I hope the DFL will get on board and work with the Senate and House Republicans to make all communities in our state safe once again.