Legislative Update - December 18, 2019

Dear Neighbors,

With the holidays coming up fast, and the New Year just around the corner, the 2020 Legislative Session will be here before you know it. Recently, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released the November Budget and Economic Forecast, which gives us a snapshot of how Minnesota is doing. MMB’s current prediction puts us at a balance of $1.3 billion for the current biennium, and though Minnesota’s economy is doing well, with inflation itself projected at $1 billion, we need to be cautious when looking at future deficits.

I believe that being a smart, responsible legislator includes prudent investments, and with the warning signs of uncertain federal trade policies, a shortage of workers, and possible economic slowdown, we need to make sure that we’re supporting policies that’ll make Minnesota stronger, such as world-class schools, affordable health care, updated infrastructure, and effective workforce development. You can read more about the budget forecast here.

Northstar Update

During the interim, there were several news stories on our efforts to extend Northstar to St. Cloud. From the Fox 9 and WCCO stories on the project, to the St. Cloud Times’ coverage on our work with community stakeholders, the #FinishNorthstar movement continues to build momentum! To go over our successes of the past year and lay out our plans for the future, I’ll be holding a Northstar Town Hall with Senator Jerry Relph on Thursday, January 30, from 6:30-8:30pm at the Great River Regional Library. I hope to see you there!

Climate Change & Clean Energy Forum

This last week saw a lot of great news in our consolidating efforts to take on climate change at the Minnesota Capitol. After thousands of students marched across the state for action on climate change, my colleagues and I in the Minnesota House formed the Climate Action Caucus. Recently, members of the Minnesota Senate have done the same, and Governor Walz has established the Climate Change Subcabinet as well as an advisory council on climate change.

Our work in the House this fall included informational hearings on how climate change impacts various policy areas, including transportation, housing, and public health. Our next meeting will cover the impact of climate change on Minnesota’s environment. You can find more information on the Climate Action Caucus, including updates and a meeting schedule, on our website.

I’m also excited to announce the rescheduled date for our Climate Change and Clean Energy Forum in St. Cloud. I’ll be joined by Rep. Jamie Long, the vice chair of the House Energy and Climate Division, on Tuesday, January 14, from 6-8:30pm at the Great River Regional Library.

Minnesota National Guard

Like many of you, our family has been deeply feeling the loss of the Minnesota National Guard soldiers who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident in our community. You can find more information on memorial  funds here.

Stay In Touch!

There’s more work to be done to move Minnesota forward, and until the Legislature reconvenes on February 11, 2020, I’ll be back home working with you to find solutions. Please feel free to call me at (651) 296-6612, or email me at rep.dan.wolgamott@house.mn if you have any questions, comments, or solutions to improve Minnesota together.

Go Vikes!

Rep. Dan Wolgamott