ST. PAUL, MN – A new Star Tribune poll conducted from June 11-13 found “broad popular support” for the DFL budget’s tax plan.
According to the poll, 58 percent of Minnesotans support an income tax increase on the wealthiest Minnesotans, compared to 36 percent opposed.
Rep. Peter Fischer (DFL—Maplewood) said the poll results reaffirm public support for tax fairness.
“Instead of balancing the budget on the backs of the most vulnerable Minnesotans, we asked people who have done very well to chip in a little more,” said Rep. Fischer. “Our approach creates a fairer tax system and allows us to pay for key investments, like free all-day Kindergarten for every child, middle class property tax relief, and a tuition freeze for college students.”
Rep. Fischer also stressed that the DFL budget did not rely on new revenue alone.
“Our budget uses a combination of targeted cuts, reforms, and new revenue to eliminate the deficit and pay for new investments,” said Rep. Fischer. “That kind of balanced approach will serve our state well. It’s also important to keep in mind that per capita spending under our budget is well below spending levels over the past decade. For example, spending is down nearly $300 per capita compared to 2002 levels.”
The Star Tribune poll comes on the heels of news from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announcing that Minnesota has one of the fastest-growing economies in the country.
According to DEED, a study by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) shows that Minnesota’s GDP climbed 3.5 percent in 2012, which tied for fifth place in growth among all states. The study also found that Minnesota has one of the country’s lowest unemployment rates, ranking 11th nationally in April at 5.3 percent.
“Whether you’re a DFLer, Republican, or independent, I think we can all agree this is great news,” Rep. Fischer said when asked about the announcement from DEED. “Our budget keeps Minnesota’s economy moving forward by providing the largest businesses tax cut in state history, offering low-interest business loans, beefing up job training opportunities and more. Our state is headed towards a bright future and I think that’s something all Minnesotans can all be proud of.”
Rep. Fischer added that he had a good time speaking with constituents at a town hall meeting on Wednesday night at Century College.
“One of the most important things I can do to be an effective voice for my constituents is listen,” said Rep. Fischer. “I enjoyed answering questions, catching up with my neighbors, and having a robust discussion and exchange about the 2013 Legislative Session.”