Saint Paul, Minnesota – House DFL Leader Paul Thissen is inviting Minnesotans from across the state that highlight the stakes for Minnesota’s future this legislative session to Governor Dayton’s State of the State address. In particular, Thissen said he wants to put a face to the Minnesotans that will be left behind in the Republican budget plan, which would cut taxes by more than $2 billion, while shortchanging education, greater Minnesota, and health care for working Minnesotans and our most vulnerable.
“We expect Governor Dayton will lay out a vision for Minnesota’s future where all Minnesotans have a better chance at economic security and success. That is a vision very different from the Republican budget plan,” said Thissen. “With a $2 billion surplus, we should not leave behind our kids, working Minnesotans, and Greater Minnesota. We want to raise up the voices Minnesotans who deserve a legislature willing to fight for all – not just the connected and wealthy few.”
House DFL Leader Thissen’s guests include:
Jane Berenz, Superintendent, Apple Valley-Eagan-Rosemount
Despite a $1.9 billion surplus, the House Republican budget provides less than a 1% increase for E-12 education. For every $1 Republicans put toward education, they are giving $15 in tax cuts. School officials have signaled that shortchanging education in this way could force local budget cuts in education.
Delrae Williams, Mayor, City of Moorhead
Governor Dayton and DFL legislators have introduced legislation to address the emerging oil train public safety issue. Governor’s Dayton’s bonding proposal includes resources for a grade crossing in Moorhead. Republicans have said they oppose a bonding bill and have opposed legislation that would ask railroad companies to pay for rail safety improvements.
Gabe Goldstein, MinnesotaCare enrollee and graphic designer who has a serious health condition.
Despite a $1.9 billion surplus, Republicans are proposing a $1 billion cut to health and human services. 95,000 working Minnesotans would lose their health care coverage.
Alysen Nesse, recent graduate from Maple Grove with more than $80,000 in student loan debt
While Governor Dayton has proposed to continue the tuition freeze at the U of M and MnSCU system, Republicans have shortchanged higher education in their budget targets. Higher tuition and debt are very likely under the Republican budget.
Nikki Kleman, St. Paul mother of a son with a rare form of leukemia and member of Momcology Read more about her story here.
Rep. Thissen has authored the Working Parents Act to provide more balance and flexibility in workplace policies for Minnesota families. Earned sick leave, paid family leave, fair scheduling, and wage theft protections are included in the package. House Republicans have refused to give the Working Parents Act a hearing.
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