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State Representative John Benson
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-9934
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
Column/LTE
LOCAL LAWMAKERS INVITE AREA CITIZENS TO STATE BUDGET HEARINGS
To the Editor:
Challenging times often require difficult decisions. Like 44 other states, Minnesota is facing a record $4.8 billion budget shortfall brought on by the nationwide economic downturn. As revenues continue to fall, the deficit is projected to reach $7 billion - roughly 20% of the state’s biennial budget. Minnesota’s constitution requires lawmakers resolve that deficit by the end of this session.
Two weeks ago Governor Pawlenty began that difficult process, releasing his budget-balancing proposal. That proposal is a starting point for finding a comprehensive solution to the growing budget shortfall. Lawmakers are reviewing Governor Pawlenty’s plan closely, looking for areas of agreement and places for improvement. But we can’t do this work alone.
As your legislators, we take your concerns and suggestions seriously. Your input helps us make the best decisions for our communities. Now, confronting the most serious economic and fiscal challenge Minnesota has seen in decades, your participation in the legislative process has never been more important.
For that reason, several bipartisan legislative budget hearings are being held in our area so lawmakers can gather citizen input on budget solutions. All residents living in the West Metro area are encouraged to attend one of the following hearings:
Tuesday, February 24
7:00pm
Bloomington City Hall
1800 W Old Shakopee Road
Thursday, February 26
7:00pm
Plymouth City Hall
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Minnesota legislators need to hear from you in order to craft a responsible budget solution that reflects the priorities of our community and state. We look forward to hearing from you.
John Benson
State Representative
District 43B
Terri Bonoff
State Senator
District 43
David Hann
State Senator
District 42
Jenifer Loon
State Representative
District 42B
Maria Ruud
State Representative
District 42A
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