Dear Neighbors,
The 2023 legislative session adjourned for the year late Monday night, bringing an end to one of the most extreme and partisan sessions in history. In total, the budget approved by Democrat majorities in the House and Senate and soon to be signed into law by Governor Walz grows overall government spending by nearly 40%, spends the entire $17.5 billion budget surplus, and imposes close to $10 billion in new taxes that will impact every Minnesotan.
With a record-breaking $17.5 billion budget surplus, many Minnesotans rightfully expected to see significant tax relief this year to help mitigate the impacts of soaring inflation, rising gas prices and increased costs at the grocery store. Instead, Democrat majorities in the House and Senate along with Governor Walz, approved the most partisan budget we have seen in decades. Their reckless budget will grow government by 40%, spend the entirety of the budget surplus, and raises nearly $10 billion in new taxes that will directly impact every Minnesotan.
Details of the Democrat budget include:
- The Largest Tax Increase in State History: Combining all of the tax increases passed this week Democrats are raising taxes on Minnesotans by nearly $10 billion despite the state’s record-breaking $17.5 billion budget surplus—including a new gas tax increase, sales tax increase, higher car tab fees, more payroll taxes, higher boat registration fees, and more.
- Growing Government: Over 40% growth in state government spending, the largest increase in decades and vastly outpacing the state’s economic growth of around 3% annually as well as thousands of new state employees.
- Increased Motor Vehicle Fees: All of us will pay more thanks to an increase in the motor vehicle sales tax and vehicle tab fees for all motorists.
- Broken Promises on Social Security Taxes: Democrats refused to fully exempt all Minnesotans from state taxes on social security benefits despite their campaign promises last fall to do so.
- Broken Promises on Rebate Checks: Last summer Governor Walz promised $2,000 rebate checks, but now that Democrats spent through the entire surplus and more that number is all the way down to $260.
- Damaging Local Charities: Changes to E-Pull Tabs will limit the ability of local charities to fundraise to support their missions in the community.
- Mandates for Schools: Dozens of new mandates for schools will leave many school districts in worse financial shape despite Democrat claims that they are making “historic” investments in schools.
- Infringing on the Second Amendment: Gun control bills that target law-abiding Minnesotans and not criminals were signed into law despite bipartisan opposition.
Despite this session’s many disappointments and Democrats' continued refusal to work with Republicans, I am nevertheless pleased that we were able to secure emergency funding that will help save our rural nursing homes. This important funding will help these care facilities keep their doors open and was one of just a few bright spots from this year’s legislative session.
Staying in Touch
While the legislative session may be over, my work serving you, your family, and our community does not end. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions, comments, or concerns. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-8237 or via email at rep.brian.daniels@house.mn.gov.
God Bless,
Brian