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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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BLY RESPONDS TO GOVERNOR’S BUDGET PROPOSAL
ST. PAUL – Governor Tim Pawlenty released his state budget which detailed his plan to balance the $4.8 billion state budget deficit, relying primarily on steep budget cuts and accounting shifts. State Representative David Bly said over the next several weeks it will be important to look over the Governor’s budget to provide detailed information to the people of Northfield about how they may be affected by the Governor’s proposals.
“The Governor’s budget is another example of how serious the economic challenges facing our state really are," said Bly. “This is the starting point for us to begin discussing what is the best way to position Minnesota for a stronger economic future. The next step is getting public input about whether the priorities in the Governor’s budget match the priorities of the people of Minnesota.”
While specific details will emerge in coming weeks, Bly said the Governor’s budget appears to rest largely on deep spending cuts in health and human services, local government aid and higher education. The proposal includes $2.5 billion in cuts to various state programs, $3 billion in accounting shifts, an increase in state fees and licenses, and $860 in new spending for business tax cuts, other spending initiatives and replenishment of the budget reserve. Bly said he’s disappointed the proposal didn’t include new ideas or a broader vision for economic growth.
“This budget looks surprisingly similar to the budget cuts made in 2003 that forced tens of thousands off the health insurance rolls, $2 billion in property tax increases and double-digit college tuition increases,” said Bly. “Middle class families in Northfield shouldn’t be forced to bear the burden of these budget cuts again.
We have to get away from this failed economic plan that squeezes the middle class and expects wealth to trickle down.”
Bly said the Legislature will look carefully at the Governor’s budget and also consider new ideas and approaches that weren’t considered by the Governor. In addition, he asked the public to participate in the process and share their ideas.
“There are sacrifices and difficult choices ahead, but the Legislature will make better choices if the input and ideas of Minnesotans are part of the solution,” said Bly. “Beginning in February we will hold Town Hall meetings throughout the state to gather your ideas for our budget and future of the state.”
While the budget remains a top concern, Bly said the Legislature needs to stay committed to job creation and protection, including working with federal government on the economic recovery plan.
“We can’t forget the top priority for our state is the economic recovery, and the best way to turn things around is by protecting and creating jobs.”
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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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