Dear Neighbors,
The 2023 legislative session adjourned for the year late Monday night, bringing an end to the most extreme and partisan session 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 the state’s record-breaking $17.5 billion budget surplus, many Minnesotans expected to see significant tax relief coming their way this year to help mitigate the impacts of soaring inflation, high gas prices, and more. Unfortunately, the Democrat Trifecta was unable to restrain themselves or listen to the objections of Republicans and instead passed a state budget that includes the largest tax increase in state history and a 40% increase in overall spending. Every Minnesotan is going to pay more thanks to Democrats’ reckless budget and out-of-control spending.
Tax hikes include raising the state’s gas tax and tying it to inflation, increasing vehicle license tab fees, adding a new delivery tax, a new payroll tax that will hit employers and employees alike, and more.
In addition to spending and taxes, Democrats enacted several highly controversial, partisan policy measures. This includes adopting some of the world’s most extreme abortion policies, enacting a state-funded speech registry that could undermine First Amendment rights, and declaring Minnesota a sanctuary state for transgender healthcare – for children. There is also a Democrat provision in the Tax Bill that will end electronic pull tabs as we know them, dealing a major blow to local charitable organizations.
There is no doubt that this has been the most consequential legislative session in recent memory. I am deeply concerned at the lack of moderation and restraint from Democrats as they continued to set aside the interests of the entire state of Minnesota and have instead legislated to a select group of their most radical activist base. Minnesotans deserve better from their elected officials.
Staying in Touch
Please be sure to reach out to me to share your thoughts, concerns, and ideas. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4333 or via email at rep.josh.heintzeman@house.mn.gov.
God bless,
Josh