Honoring Fallen First Responders Earlier this week, a public memorial for the three fallen Burnsville First Responders, Paul Elmstrand, Matthew Ruge and Adam Finseth, was held in Eden Prairie. I watched on TV with a heavy heart. My heart goes out to their friends, families, and Burnsville community as they grieve this heart wrenching loss. To all of our officers here at home who keep us safe – thank you for your service. Budget Forecast Shows Minnesota is on the Right Path On Thursday, state budget officials released a new economic forecast showing Minnesota’s economy is growing and our long-term budget outlook is stable. We are also in a strong position to weather unforeseen challenges down the road. Corporate profits are soaring, but many working families still face challenges. Our historic 2023 budget began to tackle the rising cost of childcare, health care, and housing. Throughout the 2024 session, House DFL lawmakers will continue working with our neighbors and community members – rooted in the values we all share – to lower the cost of living and deliver economic security for working families. We are growing the middle class through jobs with good pay, benefits, and working conditions so Minnesotans can build better lives. Our economic outlook is a testament to the strength and resiliency of Minnesotans, and we will continue to manage our state’s finances in an effective, responsible manner while being responsive to challenges facing people and communities across the state. Legislation to Lower Energy Rates This week, my bill to exempt energy transmission equipment from property taxes was heard in the Taxes Committee. This would affect approximately 50 electric coops across the state, including BENCO in our region. If passed, it would save around $118,000 in charges to ratepayers. This legislation has bipartisan support, and I’m looking forward to carrying it all the way across the finish line. MPCA Small Business Environmental Loan Program If your small business is looking to reduce on-site air emissions, clean up contamination, or generate less waste be sure to apply for the MPCA Small Business Environmental Loan program. The program offers zero-interest loans up to $75,000 to tackle these high-impact projects. You can learn more and apply here.  Take my Legislative Survey One of the best tools I have in setting my legislative priorities is YOU! Take my legislative survey to make your voice heard. Submissions are open now through May 1, 2024. TAKE THE SURVEY  |