Legislative Update
Friends,
As we enter the final stretch of the legislative session, you’re probably hearing a lot about something called an “Omnibus Bill.” When I first got started in this political world, I didn’t know what that meant either. An omnibus—or “vehicle”—bill is basically a big package that combines several smaller bills into one. Why does the legislature do this?
Simple: it lets lawmakers pass a lot of bills quickly before the session ends.
This week, several of these omnibus bills came to the House floor. And with the House currently tied at 67 - 67, you can assume a relatively even mix of Republican and Democrat priorities will be included.
When I read through the bills, some parts looked promising, and others had cause for concern. So, how do I decide how to vote?
I ask myself three questions:
- Is this the best version of the bill?
- Does it raise taxes?
- Would it negatively impact my district?
If the answer to any of those is wrong, then I vote “no.”
An Example: The Legacy Bill
This bill included funding for some worthwhile projects across the state. But it also asked taxpayers in my district to fund projects they’re unlikely to use or visit. It wasn’t an easy decision, but that’s why you elected me—to vote with your best interests in mind. I voted “no.” The bill still passed, but I’ll have another opportunity to weigh in after it returns from the Senate and conference committees. If it improves, I’ll reconsider my vote.
I Will Not Support Tax Increases
Minnesotans are already taxed enough. We need to shrink the size of government and get back to providing core services efficiently and effectively. I’ve learned a lot about where your hard-earned tax dollars are going, and I’ll be honest—it gives me heartburn. I’m doing what I can to fix it, and I’m not afraid to throw up a few roadblocks along the way.
This is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s going to take time to untangle the mess left by years of unchecked spending under the Democrat trifecta.
Local Issues
Back in the district, I’ve been working on a few issues that have been on your minds. After a lot of back-and-forth with state agencies, I believe we’re close to resolving some long-standing problems. I’m committed to being there for you—regardless of how you voted. If you need help, I’ll be there. That’s my job, and I take it seriously.
Committee Work
Most committees have wrapped up for the year, but a few are still meeting. I sit on the House Rules Committee, which schedules bills for floor debate. That gives me an early look at what’s coming up—and the chance to do my homework.
I also serve on the Pension Commission. We’re in the final stages of that work. I’ve pushed hard to find funding for teacher, police, and fire pensions. Unfortunately, funding is tight. Republicans offered serious solutions, but Democrats blocked them. Then we tried again. Same result.
Now, those same Democrats are suddenly talking about “fiscal responsibility.” I just wish they’d cared about that over the last four years. If they had, we wouldn’t be facing a $6 billion deficit today.
The problem with spending other people’s money is eventually—you run out of it. Then you’re stuck finding new things to tax. That’s where I come in. I’ll be standing right in their way.
It’s clear that increased spending and higher taxes is not a sustainable way to move Minnesota forward. It’s time to take a hard look at our priorities and where we direct funds from the state budget.
As long as I’m in St. Paul, I’ll prioritize your pocketbook.
Sincerely,
Terry Stier