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State Representative David Bly

559 State Office BuildingState Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-0171

For more information contact: Michael Howard 651-296-8873

Posted: 2010-02-04 00:00:00
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Press/News Releases

2010 Session Off to Fast Start



Capital Investment bill introduced first day, includes transit funding for Northfield
ST. PAUL, MN – The 2010 session began quickly today with the Minnesota House of Representatives rolling out a Capital Investment bill to stimulate Minnesota’s job market and get people back to work. It is unprecedented for the Legislature to move this quickly on a Capital Investment bill. Bly said the quick start matches the sense of urgency he hears from his constituents about the need to focus on jobs and the economy.
“Economist after economist say investing in state infrastructure is the best way the Legislature can have a meaningful and direct impact on unemployment," said Bly. “Over 140,000 Minnesotans have lost their job during this recession and we need to get people back to work.”

Bly said the Capital Investment bill in the House balances investments throughout the state and includes proposals to strengthen South Central Minnesota. The House bill includes $520,000 for Greater Minnesota transit for the city of Northfield to design a multimodal hub to serve as a transfer station and park and ride. The hub would also provide connections to Mill Towns State trail.

“The people of South Central Minnesota want more transit options, especially workers who commute to the Metro area,” said Bly. “This hub is a step in the right direction and I will work to see it through to the final bill that reaches the Governor’s desk.”

Along with jobs initiatives, the Legislature must close a $1.2 billion budget shortfall brought on by a 70% drop in state revenue. With the $6.4 billion deficit from last year, this is the largest deficit for any budget cycle in state history. Bly said it’s important for the Legislature to set priorities and minimize cuts that will make it harder for Minnesota families to recover from the recession.

“How we balance our budget will affect the lives of Minnesotans both now and into the future. It’s not a simple math equation,” said Bly. “We need to minimize job losses, and lay the foundation for a lasting economic recovery for Minnesota families.”

Rep. Bly encourages constituents to contact throughout the legislative session.

“Please call or e-mail me throughout the session with your input,” said Bly. “If you are visiting the State Capitol make sure to call so we can visit. It continues to be an honor to represent our communities in these challenging times.”

Rep. Bly can be reached at (651) 296-7065 or by e-mail at rep.david.bly@house.mn

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