Dear Neighbors and Friends, In my recent newsletter, I discussed the ongoing budget negotiations in the State House. Our decisions are significantly impacted by President Trump's reckless tariffs, federal funding cuts, and the dismantling of vital agencies and programs that support Minnesota's most vulnerable residents. Almost daily, we face new and unpredictable policies from the Trump administration. The latest example is the broad tariffs that threaten economies globally, and Minnesota will not be spared. Our state's economy depends on over $20 billion in foreign imports annually. These tariffs will increase the cost of everyday goods, negatively affect our farmers and grocery stores, and contribute to higher housing prices as we already struggle with a housing crisis. Ultimately, these Trump tariffs are a tax on Minnesotans and part of a pattern of undermining our state's economy and budget. When the federal government fails to act responsibly, it's crucial that Minnesota is prepared to lead. That's why Democrats are introducing legislation to create an action plan to thoroughly understand the far-reaching effects of these tariffs on our state and businesses statewide. Minnesota must be ready for the challenges ahead. My DFL colleague, Rep. Mike Howard, is championing a bill that will study the economic impact of these tariffs on all Minnesota families and businesses. With Congressional Republicans failing to hold the President accountable, we must take action at the state level to help Minnesota navigate this coming economic storm.  Small Business Impact Survey Amid additional federal tariffs announced this week, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development is gathering information from affected small businesses in Minnesota. In this period of uncertainty, there may be a lag in data, so this survey is a way for business owners to communicate directly with the department now. The survey takes less than five minutes to complete. By collaborating with Minnesota's locally owned small businesses, which face significant challenges, we can proactively plan for the state's future needs. Resources for laid-off Minnesota federal workers In Minnesota, we value the experience and expertise of public employees. However, Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s sweeping cuts have resulted in many dedicated federal workers suddenly losing their jobs or being threatened with layoffs. Last month, Governor Walz announced that the state launched a new website aimed at connecting these workers with new jobs, whether within state government or the private sector. If you have any questions about the resources available to our community, or on our work in the Minnesota House, please feel free to reach out! We have less than two months left in the legislative session, and now is a great time to touch base.  Stay Connected!Unfortunately, due to technological constraints, replies to this newsletter won’t reach my email account. To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out at rep.brion.curran@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4342, and I will be happy to help. If you were forwarded this email and you’d like to subscribe, click here. If you have a friend or neighbor who would be interested in receiving these, please forward this and encourage them to subscribe! Sincerely, Brion Curran
State Representative |