Capitol Newsletter from Rep. Spencer Igo

Dear Neighbors,

It has been a busy week at the capitol as omnibus finance bills have moved to the House floor for debate and votes. In total, the House is set to approve four omnibus bills by the end of the day, Friday.

Thursday evening, we approved both the Housing and Legacy omnibus bills.

I voted “no” on both bills.

Unfortunately, the Housing bill did nothing to address the shortage of market-rate housing, the high cost of developing housing or making it easier for Minnesotans to purchase a home.

I also voted “no” on the Legacy bill because although there were some projects in it that I supported, ultimately there was too much frivolous spending.

Today we will be voting on the Transportation Policy and Finance bill and the State Government Finance bill.

In the transportation bill, Democrats are trying to bring back their gas and light rail taxes. Simply put, there is no need to increase taxes when we have a $1.6 billion surplus and billions more coming from the federal government.

The State Government Finance bill dramatically increases spending, grows government, and gives raises to bureaucrats at a time when Minnesotans are struggling to recover from the pandemic.

Neither bill represents the values of our communities and the Northland.

I commit to you that I will always work to reduce the tax burden on you and your family and make sure that government operates within its means. Supporting these bills would mean breaking that commitment to you, therefore I do not intend to vote for either piece of legislation.

Despite the issues I have with these bills, I am hopeful that each piece of legislation will come back from conference committee with the Senate much improved and that I will be able to support them on final passage later this legislative session.

Stay tuned for more updates on finance bills as we will be debating and voting on many next week.

Staying in Touch

As your representative, it is my duty to listen to your thoughts, questions, and concerns regarding state government. Please do not hesitate to contact me, it would be great to chat. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4936 or via email at rep.spencer.igo@house.mn. 

Have a great day,

Spencer