Dear Neighbors,
Happy Winter Solstice! As winter has officially arrived, I hope you and your family are doing well. If you’re out and about traveling this week, I also hope you’re safe and cautious with dangerously low temperatures and difficult roadways.
Committee Assignments
This coming session, I’m honored to take on a new role chairing the House Ways and Means Committee. The committee – of which I’ve served as Vice Chair the past four years – has broad jurisdiction over the state budget and traditionally serves as the final committee stop before finance bills reach the House Floor. Our state budget should reflect the values Minnesotans share, while addressing the challenges they’re facing. Together, we can work to address the needs of Minnesotans and I am happy to do my part as the next chair of Ways and Means.
Additionally, I look forward to serving on the Taxes and Rules and Legislative Administration Committees this coming biennium.
State Budget Forecast
Speaking of the state budget, officials recently announced the latest economic forecast which, most notably, projected a $17.6 billion budget surplus. Despite the surplus, Minnesotans are still struggling with high costs for expenses like food, gas, health care, and housing, and many people are still concerned about the future. I look forward to working right away this January to help ensure lawmakers take full advantage of this historic opportunity to boldly invest in workers, families, and communities.
House DFLers are committed to putting workers and families first and will deliver key investments to make Minnesota a state that works better for everyone. Learn more about the budget forecast here.
Happy Holidays
Serving as your State Representative is a true honor, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to continue working for the betterment of our Duluth community. I also extend my warmest holiday wishes to you and your family. I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday, filled with moments of joy and togetherness.
The 2023 Legislative Session begins January 3 and I look forward to continuing to work on your behalf this coming year. As always, I invite you to reach out to me with your input, ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance. Thank you for the opportunity to serve at the State Capitol.
Sincerely,
Liz Olson
State Representative