Dear Neighbors,
Budget Forecast
This past Tuesday, Minnesota Management and Budget announced a forecasted budget surplus of $1.65 billion, which is $250 million higher than previous estimates. The February Economic Forecast revealed that Minnesota continues to have low unemployment and a stable budget. I think it is prudent to remember that while the forecast shows a positive long term picture, uncertainty at the federal level could change that.
The budget surplus is an opportunity to reinvest in every Minnesotan in all corners of the state - through strong public schools, affordable college and job training, access to good jobs and benefits like paid leave and earned sick time, and addressing affordable healthcare access. With this opportunity also comes the responsibility to budget wisely to benefit the whole state.
June Primary?
Representative Fenton’s (R) bill, HF 1393, was heard in Government Operations on Wednesday. This bill proposes moving the primary election from August to June. The bill has been a priority of Republican Speaker Daudt and the leadership of both major state parties, while others argue that it disadvantages sitting legislators and their constituents because they would have to campaign in the middle of session. The bill was laid over for possible inclusion in an omnibus bill.
Preemption
On Thursday, in spite of resistance from many DFL Representatives and me, the Minnesota House passed HF 600 which will preempt local governments from setting workplace policies. The bill is from the American Legislative Exchange Council which provides very conservative model pieces of legislation to state legislatures. Passing preemption is the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce’s top priority this legislative session.
If enacted, it would prevent local communities from setting pro-worker policies such as earned sick leave, paid family leave, fair scheduling, and a higher minimum wage, among others. The bill would also roll back earned sick time for 150,000 Minnesotans, and prevent future wage and benefit increases in communities across the state.
Committee hearings on HF 600 drew strong criticism from a broad variety of Minnesotans including nurses, faith leaders, labor leaders, city officials, neighborhood groups, and workers. Governor Dayton has said he will veto the legislation. The bill passed 76-53.
Calling All Kids!
This week, Lt. Governor Smith and the State Capitol Grand Opening Planning Committee announced a statewide essay contest celebrating the historic Minnesota State Capitol. Essay contest winners will be invited to share their essays as part of the State Capitol Grand Opening festivities in August. Minnesota students in grades K-12 are encouraged to submit essays explaining how the State Capitol has shaped our collective past and will impact future generations. To find out more about the essay contest and how to submit an entry click here.
Advocacy for Children Day
Thursday was also Advocacy for Children Day at the capitol. It was the highlight of my day to walk across the street and find the rotunda filled to the gills with little and big folks all showing up to remind us how important it is to support our youngest community members. This was an opportunity for parents, teachers, and early care and education professionals from across the state to stand up and raise their voice for children. Thank for a reason to take a moment to do one of the things I love to do most, read to our children.
Update on SAV’s Lowry Grove
On Thursday, March 9th at 11:15, at the Hennepin County Government Center, Aeon and the Lowry Grove residents will be in court to address an appeal from an earlier ruling concluding that residents could sue for financial damages, but not to maintain ownership of the park. The final conclusion to the conflict between the residents, owners, and developer of the manufactured home park is largely going to be figured out in the courts.
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Best,
Mary