Dear Neighbors,
The legislature returned to St. Paul on Monday to begin what is likely to be a weeks long special session to wrap up budget negotiations and approve a new two-year state budget. In addition to work on the budget, the legislature was also called back to St. Paul because Governor Walz extended his emergency powers another 30 days.
In fact, Monday marked the 458th day of emergency powers in Minnesota and was the 19th time I have voted to end these unnecessary and harmful powers. It’s way past time to return the legislature to its constitutional role as a coequal branch of government.
The emergency phase of the pandemic is over. Sadly, it seems like Governor Walz is the only person that does not realize this.
I will continue working hard to end the emergency powers and defend rural Minnesota from harmful policies being pushed by Twin Cities Democrats.
My plan is to provide more updates as special session progresses and bills start to come before us for votes.
Until then, I encourage you to reach out to me to share your thoughts, questions, and concerns. I can be reached by phone at either 651-296-4929 or 701-361-1909. I can also be reached via email at rep.jeff.backer@house.mn.
Have a good day and stay tuned for more updates as they become available,
Jeff