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State Representative Joyce Peppin
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-7806
For more information contact: House GOP Communications 651-296-5520
NEWS COLUMN
2011 Session Preview
Dear Friends,
The 2011 session began last week and I wanted to take a moment to update you on events at the Capitol.
In this update:
1. 2011 Session Preview
2. Committee Structure and Chairs
3. Nuclear Power Moratorium Repeal
1. 2011 Session Preview
The Legislature convened for the 2011 session last week with a clear message from Minnesota voters and a new majority committed to their priorities. Faced with economic and budget challenges, we are driven to achieve positive solutions that bring job growth back to our communities and responsibility back to government.
With the economy in a slow but fragile recovery, the Legislature must focus on pro-growth initiatives to improve our business climate. Reducing the tax burden on job creators, reforming the regulatory process and removing barriers to job creation will increase our state’s economic competitiveness and promote job growth in the private sector. With an open door to opportunity, the hardworking people of our area and all of Minnesota will put us back on track for recovery and growth.
Also important is the issue of the budget. Facing a $6.2 billion deficit, it’s time to reduce the cost, size and scope of state government, and develop solutions for long-term fiscal stability. Like you, I understand the importance of setting a budget, setting priorities and living within our means. Our state can no longer afford the status quo, and our people deserve better. From redesigning the structure of government to streamlining operations, there is much we can do to slim-down spending, balance the budget and still provide the critical services citizens rely on.
Throughout session, I encourage you to contact me with your questions and thoughts on all legislative issues. Together, we can create the solutions our state needs and give you the responsible government you deserve.
2. New Committee Structure and Committee Chairs
Before session even began, our new majority took to streamlining government and improving results for Minnesota citizens. Last month we announced a new committee structure to make the legislative process leaner, more open, and more accessible. The House of Representatives will reduce the number of committees from 36 to 24 while the Senate will reduce the number of committees from 25 to 16.
In total, the new GOP leadership in the Minnesota Legislature will be dropping the number of committees from 61 to 40, a reduction of approximately 35 percent. This new structure will simplify the legislative process and is expected to save taxpayers between $750,000 and $1 million. While only a small part of the budget, it represents our commitment to making government smaller, more responsible and more cost-effective.
In addition to announcing a new committee structure, we also named the committee chairs for the 2011-12 session. I’m privileged to announce that I will chair the State Government Operations and Elections Committee. I look forward to continuing my work for fiscal responsibility and government reform in this new leadership position.
Our state faces many challenges, but it is also a great opportunity to redesign government for cost-savings and better results. Real government reform is critical to solving the state’s long-term budget problems and freeing Minnesota’s job providers and families from the burdens of unnecessary government. I look forward to bringing Minnesota government into the 21st century, reducing costs and delivering results for our customers, the citizens of Minnesota.
3. Nuclear Power Moratorium Repeal
Again in 2011, I am authoring legislation to repeal the nuclear power plant construction moratorium. The House Energy Committee heard this bill first thing Tuesday morning, and I am confident it will see passage soon. As residents of our area know, nuclear is a safe, affordable and renewable energy resource. It brings power to our homes and quality jobs to our community. Expanding nuclear power can make Minnesota a leader as our country looks to create a more sustainable, independent energy future.
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As always, if you have questions or comments on any legislative issue, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Joyce
News Items
- PEPPIN REPORT: FORECAST SHOWS THIRD CONSECUTIVE STATE SURPLUS - (Posted: 2012-12-06 00:00:00)
- A Look Ahead to the 2012 Legislative Session - (Posted: 2012-01-26 00:00:00)
- A Call to Caucus - (Posted: 2012-02-04 00:00:00)
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