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State Budget Forecast
As we prepare for the fast-approaching start of the 2020 Legislative Session, something I’m watching very closely is the recent budget and economic forecast from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB). This budget forecast is a snapshot prediction of Minnesota’s economy, and though there is a projected balance of $1.3 billion going into next session, there are many other factors to include.
Though Minnesota’s economy is doing well, inflation, uncertain federal trade policies, an excess of unfilled jobs, and a potential economic slowdown need to be taken into account. With inflation alone being around $1 billion, prudent legislating will be needed to responsibly support the things Minnesotans care about, like world-class education, affordable health care, a strong workforce, and updated infrastructure. We’ll have a new economic forecast just as session starts in February, but to learn more about the current predictions, you can read MPR’s coverage here.
Highway 14 Grant
There have been a few recent news stories concerning Highway 14’s exclusion from the 2019 BUILD Grants. In fact, no Minnesota project was a recipient this year. I join the bipartisan members of our congressional delegation in calling for more information on this process. I know first-hand the difficulties that come with crafting a budget. The reality is that not every worthy project can be supported, but with some states receiving three grants, either more information is needed to help Minnesota obtain successful grants in the future, or the process needs to become more transparent, and it would ideally be both.
Going forward with Highway 14, and the numerous other transportation infrastructure projects across the state, our work in the Minnesota Legislature will strive to lead where DC is unable.
Combating Climate Change
When the Legislature returns in February, we’ll be doing so with several new caucuses, subcommittees, and advisory councils aimed at taking on climate change in Minnesota. This year, we saw thousands of students march at the Capitol and in our community, all of them calling for action on climate change. My colleagues and I in the Minnesota House listened, and we formed the Climate Action Caucus. Since then, we’ve spent the interim holding 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.
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