Dear Neighbors,
Minnesota Management & Budget on Tuesday issued a budget forecast which projects a $641 million state revenue surplus through June 30, reversing a previously projected $2.4 billion shortfall. A $1.3 billion shortfall for the 2022-23 biennium also marks a significant improvement from earlier predictions.
Tuesday’s budget forecast is relatively good news for the state’s economic outlook and is thanks to the hard work, sacrifice, and resilience of Minnesotans during this difficult time. This improved outlook will be helpful as the legislature considers a new two-year state budget during the upcoming legislative session. We must help Main Street businesses and Minnesotans recover from the harmful Walz shutdowns and I am hopeful that Tuesday’s positive economic news will help us more quickly get aid into the hands of families that are suffering around the state.
A combination of reduced state spending and a less-than-expected dip in income-tax revenue played major roles in mitigating the economic downturn. For example, a $919 million drop in Health and Human Services spending resulted from lower-than-expected Medical Assistance utilization. And a $118 million reduction in E-12 education spending came as many parents sought alternative educational options for their children or delayed sending them to kindergarten.
While this forecast provides a rough framework of figures, an updated February report will set the official numbers from which the Legislature will construct a new state budget.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me or my office to share your thoughts and concerns regarding state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-8237 or via email at rep.brian.daniels@house.mn.
Have a great weekend,
Brian