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State Representative Tara Mack
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-5506
For more information contact: House GOP Communications 651-296-5520
NEWS COLUMN
March 2 Legislative Update
Hello from St. Paul!
On Wednesday of this week, the Office of Minnesota Management and Budget delivered some very good news – our state forecast for February was released and we have an additional $323 million surplus. Added to 2011’s November forecast surplus of $876 million gives us a combined state surplus of $1.2 billion – a welcome change from the $6.2 billion deficit Minnesota was facing just over one year ago. As a result of the February forecast, $318 million will be paid back to the K12 school shift this month.
What accounts for this $1.2 billion budget surplus?
- Reduced government spending since the budget passed in 2011, around $578 million in spending reductions
- Revenue growth due to increased economic activity
- Improved economic outlook of 2.1% growth in 2012 and 2.3% in 2013
- Minnesota’s unemployment rate of 5.6% is well below the national average of 8.5% which means our state is in better shape than most states
On Wednesday, February 29th I presented HF 2410 to the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. This bill provides support for the Minnesota Zoo, specifically for asset preservation, exhibit renewal, and master plan design and implementation. The zoo is an important asset to Apple Valley and surrounding communities. I think it is important to preserve and enhance interesting, new exhibits so the Minnesota Zoo can be enjoyed by all.
Any questions or concerns, please contact my office at 651-296-5506.
Thanks and have a good weekend!
Tara
News Items
- 2013 survey results - (Posted: May 17 2013 5:08PM)
- Rep. Mack's 2013 survey - (Posted: Apr 22 2013 4:37PM)
- Budget news, health insurance exchange and more - (Posted: Mar 22 2013 12:00AM)
- Archived News Items
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