Dear Neighbor,
A lot of work remains in getting a new two-year state budget in place before the Legislature is set to adjourn a little over one week from now.
There are major differences between what majorities in the Senate and House/Gov. Tim Walz propose. With a $1 billion surplus, there is no reason to be increasing the gas tax, extending the health care tax or raising any of the other taxes that have been proposed. So far, the House majority and governor are refusing to drop one cent from their proposed $12 billion in tax increases.
As I’ve said from the time I decided to pursue this chapter of my life in the Legislature: It’s all about the people. That approach has never been more appropriate than as we work to put in place a new state budget that will impact all Minnesotans in so many ways. I remain hopeful agreement on a new budget can be reached soon but that is going to require us to come together and focus on working to do what’s best for Minnesotans.
The outpouring of support I continue receiving from constituents through this process is truly appreciated and your kind words inspire me to keep on doing all I can to represent the people of District 13A at the Capitol. Your correspondence remains extremely valuable to me as we prepare to make our biggest decisions of the 2019 session so, please, keep sending your comments.
Look for more news from the Capitol as things develop on the budget. Our week ahead could involve some long, long hours next week as we inch toward our May 20 constitutional date of adjournment.
Until next time, have a great weekend. I hope you have a happy Mother’s Day and also have good luck in the fishing opener. Our family tradition is to get out on the Horseshoe Chain for the opener and we plan to do that again Saturday. I would love it if you would send to me any good pics you and your crew celebrating Mother’s Day or participating in the fishing opener so I may share them on social media.
Sincerely,
Lisa