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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Ben Lien (DFL)

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Rep. Lien Statement on Special Session

Saturday, June 13, 2015
 
SAINT PAUL, MN – Friday, the legislature met for a one day special session to pass budget bills that were vetoed by Governor Dayton after the regular session. While a government shutdown was avoided, the divided legislature and House Republican Majority missed many opportunities to invest the state’s $2 billion budget surplus in Greater Minnesota. 
 
Rep. Ben Lien (DFL—Moorhead) expressed concerns with the lack of bipartisan compromise and the need for special session. He released the following statement:
 
"Like many in Moorhead, I am disappointed that a special session was needed to resolve the state’s business this year. However, I am very relieved Governor Dayton and legislative leaders were able to reach compromise on the final bills; especially for the nearly 9,500 state employees who will be able to continue working past June 30th.
 
“With a surplus of nearly $2 billion, I had hoped that we could have done more for Greater Minnesota this session. We will move forward from here and I will continue to advocate for rail infrastructure, residential and agricultural property tax relief, and border city legislation.”
 
Rep. Lien says he intends to spend the interim in Moorhead, talking with local residents about their priorities.
 
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