Dear Neighbors,
The 2022 legislative session is entering its final weekend and several things remain unresolved, including returning the state’s historic budget surplus to you through permanent tax relief.
I am pushing hard for more tax relief and am opposed to the massive spending increases being demanded by House Democrats and Gov. Walz. All of us are struggling with inflation, gas prices, and high energy costs. That’s why we must provide significant tax relief that will help Minnesotans.
It is unacceptable that some are pushing for billions in new permanent spending as a condition for tax cuts. Minnesota has received more than $80 billion in funding from the federal government in COVID relief funding over the last two years. With that in mind and with state government already fully funded thanks to last year’s two-year budget, there is no need to increase spending.
The framework tax bill that has apparently been agreed to by the Senate and House majorities includes a $4 billion target. However, approximately 40% of the tax bill is spending. The tax bill should be used to cut your taxes, not spend even more of the surplus. We need to be creating policies that offer a “hand-up” like tax cuts instead of “hand-outs” that will grow the size of government.
The surplus belongs to you—the hardworking taxpayers of Minnesota. I will continue fighting hard to stop these unnecessary spending increases and return the surplus to Minnesotans and their families.
Keep an eye on your inbox as I plan to send you additional information regarding the end of the legislative once the dust settles early next week. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me to chat about your questions, concerns, and priorities. My contact information is located at the bottom of this newsletter.
This week has been National Police Week here in America. This is a time for us all to honor the men and women in law enforcement. Thank you for your service and sacrifice to keep us and our communities safe!
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions or concerns you may have. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4936 or via email at rep.spencer.igo@house.mn.
Have a great day,
Spencer