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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Erin Murphy (DFL)

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State Rep. Erin Murphy’s Statement on $1.87 billion budget surplus

Thursday, December 3, 2015

SAINT PAUL, MN—Today, the Office of Minnesota Management and Budget announced a forecasted state budget surplus of $1.87 billion for fiscal years 2016-17. After $665 million is put into state reserve accounts, as required by law, that number shrinks to $1.206 billion.

Deputy Minority Leader Erin Murphy (DFL-Saint Paul) issued the following statement:

“Another strong budget forecast offers us the rare chance to change the trajectory of our future. We must not allow this opportunity to invest in our kids and families pass without action.

“We know that ensuring access to high-quality early learning for our kids creates opportunity in their lives and has lasting positive effects on our economy and communities. Too many families don't have access to affordable pre-K because of geography, availability and cost.

“While Minnesota has led the nation on many key education and economic fronts, we continue to grapple with some of the most significant racial disparities in the country. The achievement and opportunity gaps among our students is evidence of this. We must do more.

“We can change this in the 2016 session by investing in access to universal pre-K to ensure all of our kids have access to cost-free, high-quality early learning opportunities. In the face of another strong budget surplus, inaction is unacceptable.

“Let us not forfeit this opportunity to the short-term politics of the day. Instead, let's commit now and act with a durable and ongoing investment in our kids and our future.”

Rep. Murphy encourages constituents to contact her with any questions, comments, concerns, or ideas on any legislative topic. Rep. Murphy can be reached by phone at 651-296-8799 or by email at rep.erin.murphy@house.mn .

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