Dear Neighbors,
Our eighth week of the legislative session is already coming to an end. Thank you for all of your input and constructive comments thus far; I hope you continue to reach out to me with your questions and concerns. Here is an update from the Capitol:
February Budget Forecast
Minnesota Management and Budget announced today a projected budget surplus of $1.05 billion, down $429 million since November. This demonstrates that Minnesota’s workforce shortage is constraining our economic growth, and it’s even more important that we focus on things that help Minnesotans enter and stay in the workforce — like job training, high-quality education, child care assistance, paid family leave, and earned safe and sick time.
The House and Senate will work with these forecast numbers to help shape policies for the remainder of the 2019 session. I welcome your feedback on what you’d like to see prioritized as we craft our final budget.
The Land Stewardship Project Breakfast
I was pleased to have a bite to eat at the Land Stewardship Project Family Breakfast on Tuesday. The Land Stewardship Project is a private nonprofit organization that is dedicated to sustainable agriculture and developing healthy communities. I’m grateful for their work to protect our land and water. If you want to learn more about their initiatives, I suggest going to their website: landstewardshipproject.org.
Muslim Day at the Capitol
For the 15th year in a row, Muslim Day was held at the Capitol! On Tuesday, February 26th, many of our Muslim neighbors came out to talk about issues that mattered to them. Muslim Day featured speakers and activists engaging with legislators. It was organized by The Muslim American Society of Minnesota in partnership with Isaiah. The event was originally created by Keith Ellison, now the Attorney General, who spoke to attendees.
Click here for the full story. |
|
Solar Tax Credit Bill Gets a Public Hearing
On Wednesday, my bill to provide a solar tax credit received a public hearing in the House Tax Committee. This bill has received bipartisan support, and I am pleased to let you know that it passed through the committee and its inclusion will be considered in a larger, final bill. |
|
Keep in Touch
Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or let me know if I can be of assistance. I appreciate your input.
Sincerely,
Robert Bierman
State Representative |
|
|