Legislative UpdateDear neighbors, It was another busy week at the Capitol. This week in state Government I introduced House File 1740. HF 1740 seeks to address the state's growing structural deficit, which is now $6 billion, by identifying unfilled government positions as a potential area for budget cuts. The bill targets jobs that have remained vacant for over a year, arguing that eliminating these positions would be a more practical and less disruptive way to reduce spending compared to cutting currently occupied roles. While the bill is being laid over for further discussion, it serves as a starting point for broader budget negotiations as lawmakers work toward a fiscally responsible solution. Click here to watch the video below.  House File 1346 was heard in Human Services. This bill seeks to standardize and enhance training so that teachers, healthcare professionals, and others in these roles are better equipped to protect vulnerable children. Too many kids in Minnesota are suffering in silence because the people they rely on to report abuse aren’t properly trained or don’t take action. This is very important to me and Hf 1346 passed unanimously out of committee and will make it's way to the floor for a vote from the body. The February forecast was released yesterday by Minnesota Management and Budget, which shows a growing deficit of $6 billion. House Republicans warned that unchecked spending and tax increases would devastate our state budget and today’s numbers prove it. Despite record revenues, Democrats turned an $18 billion surplus into a $6 billion deficit in just two years. House Republicans are ready to clean up this mess by pushing for smart savings and cuts without forcing families to pay for Democrats fiscal mismanagement. This week my daughter Emily Nash was a Page. She is a Junior in high school and it was great getting to work with her this week!  |