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State Representative David Bly
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-0171
For more information contact: Michael Howard 651-296-8873
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HOUSE BILL BALANCES BUDGET, PROVIDES FUNDING BOOST FOR SCHOOLS AND NURSING HOMES
St. Paul, MN – The Minnesota House of Representatives passed their Supplemental Budget Bill on Friday morning, meeting their goal of balancing the state budget, while at the same time investing in Minnesota's schools and nursing homes. Rep. David Bly (DFL – Northfield) said the plan was responsible and protects the important priorities of our state.
"Many of our schools and nursing homes are still hurting from the deep budget cuts in 2003 so it was a top priority to make sure we didn’t do that again," said Bly. "Our budget bill resolves our budget deficit fairly and responsibly without cutting our state's most vulnerable citizens," said Bly.
Nursing homes across the state will receive a 2% cost of living adjustment in 2009, and at least another 1% funding increase as a result of this bill. Bly said this increase continues the effort to adequately address the needs of nursing homes that have struggled from budget cuts in years past. Last year, the legislature passed the most significant funding increase for nursing home in several years to help close the funding gap left by the 2003 budget cuts. The Governor's budget proposal would freeze the increase provided last year and cut $31 million from nursing homes and long-term care workers.
"Its unacceptable to again cut funding for our loved ones in nursing homes and the dedicated workers who care for them," said Bly. "Nursing homes are vital part of our community and this budget bill reflects the appreciation and dedication we have for them."
The bill includes a balanced $44 million investment for Minnesota schools, providing an additional $51 per pupil for every school district in the state. Schools in dire need are offered additional short-term flexibility to use $51 per pupil from operating capital reserves for general fund balance purposes to address critical needs.
"Our commitment to education in this bill strengthens our long-term economic interests," said Bly. "If we want to stay economically competitive, we need a highly skilled workforce. That means we need to offer our students a world-class education today."
The $935 million state budget deficit is balanced in the House bill through a balanced mix of budget reductions, increased revenue through closure of corporate tax loopholes, and use of state budget reserves. Bly said the proposal incorporates several of the Governor's recommendations, but has some important differences.
"Our bill makes some difficult cuts, but we minimize higher education cuts to prevent tuition increases and we leave the Health Care Access Fund alone," said Bly. "I am glad the Governor has included the closure of corporate tax loopholes that benefit companies that shelter earnings overseas."
For more information, contact Rep. David Bly at (651) 296-7065 or by e-mail at rep.david.bly@house.mn
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News Items
- Rep.-elect Bly Selected as Vice Chair of Housing Finance and Policy Committee - (Posted: Dec 21 2012 12:06PM)
- House Passes Flood Relief for Southern Minnesota in Special Session - (Posted: 2010-10-18 00:00:00)
- Governor signs eminent domain law to protect landowners - (Posted: 2010-05-03 00:00:00)
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