February Budget ForecastYesterday, we received the February budget forecast, revealing a projected $6 billion deficit for the 2028-2029 biennium. This significant shortfall follows a period of substantial spending, particularly during the last legislative session. Despite entering the session with an $18 billion surplus, state leaders not only exhausted those funds but also implemented $10 billion in new taxes, leaving us with one of the largest budget deficits in our state’s history. While this situation is concerning, it’s important to focus on solutions. Raising taxes and increasing spending are not viable paths forward. Instead, we need to prioritize fiscal responsibility, carefully evaluating our budget and identifying what really matters to our districts. By taking a thoughtful and disciplined approach, we can get our state back on track and ensure a sustainable financial future for all.  MCCL Legislative DinnerMy wife, Maria, and I had the pleasure of attending the Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) Legislative Dinner. It was a wonderful evening spent with fellow legislators, including my friends, Representative Tom Sexton and his wife Jeanne, as well as many dedicated supporters of the pro-life movement. These events provide a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues and constituents outside of the Capitol, allowing us to build relationships and strengthen our shared commitment to protecting life. Thank you to MCCL for hosting such a meaningful gathering and for all you do to advocate for the unborn!  HF279I had my first chance to present a bill in committee this week. In the Environment and Natural Resources Committee, I introduced HF279 which would provide over $950,000 funding for ATV trail development in NE Minnesota. In conjunction with attending the ATV Minnesota reception, this was the perfect bill to introduce this week. Many thanks to St. Louis County Commissioner Mike Jugovich who joined me to testify in support of the bill.  Access NorthA group from Access North made the trip down to St. Paul to have a meeting with me. I got to hear about the important work they are doing in NE Minnesota, and see the area that they cover for our rural residents, which is a huge portion of our state. Looking forward to hearing more about their work on the Range!  MN Forest IndustriesI got to meet with members of Minnesota Forest Industries, which is especially important in our neck of the woods. We talked about timber and its important economic impact! Many new projects are on the horizon, and I’m hoping we can include our district in their plans.  Scenic Rivers Health ServicesI got to meet with Keith Harvey, CEO of Scenic Rivers Health Services and a fellow Iron Ranger, to discuss the healthcare industry in rural areas like ours. The work that him and his team does is vital to our communities on the Range.  Bibawik MeetingI was able to sit down for breakfast with Biwabik Mayor Steve Biondich and City Administrator Jeff Jacobson. It’s always great to see folks from the Range and discuss the needs of our communities. Thanks for making the trip!  ATV MinnesotaI met with both constituents and ATV enthusiasts at the ATV Minnesota reception this week. Shortly after, we heard a bill that will provide funding for our trails in NE Minnesota (HF279 above)! |