SAINT PAUL – Rep. Mary Franson (R-Alexandria) issued the following statement on the February Budget and Economic Forecast released Thursday showing a continued looming budget deficit:
“News of a looming budget deficit is a direct result of Democrats’ reckless spending spree last session that spent a historic $17.5 billion surplus. They knew their spending was out-of-control, so they raised taxes on hardworking Minnesotans by $10 billion to pay for their 40 percent increase to the state budget. In total, that’s a $28 billion increase which is not sustainable. Government spending must be reined in to prevent any future deficits. When family budgets are being stretched thin, Minnesotans tighten their belts and cut back on their spending. It’s time government does the same.”
The February budget forecast showed a $3.7 billion surplus in 2025, but a $1.5 billion deficit beginning in 2026. The deficit is forecasted as if the surplus will not be spent, meaning any new spending bills passed in 2024 will further increase the deficit.
“This Democrat deficit highlights the problems with one-party control of our state government,” said Franson. “We need balance restored in St. Paul so we can stop wasting taxpayer dollars on frivolous spending. I will continue to stand up for family budgets and bring our shared fiscal conservative values to the State Capitol this session.”
###