Dear Neighbors,
It’s been an extremely busy week at the Capitol with some good news and bad news cropping up throughout the last few days.
Preemption bill
I’m sure you’ve seen me write about this bill before, whether it’s in one of these updates or on my Facebook page. A bill that prohibits individual towns and cities from setting their own minimum wage above the state minimum wage passed out of the House on Thursday. It also prevents cities from requiring employers to provide benefits above the minimums.
I’m disappointed that Republicans would be so eager to strip control away from local government and the people they represent. Each community deserves the opportunity to make these decisions based on their values.
Budget forecast
Earlier this week, Minnesota Management and Budget released their February budget and economic forecast. The forecast shows a surplus of $1.65 billion; a result of the sound governance and responsible budgeting of the last several years.
This is an opportunity for us to capitalize on positive momentum and make smart, targeted investments in our people and our infrastructure; the things that make Minnesota a competitive state and a great place to live.
Minnesota: Third-best state to live
Along with the good news about our budget, Minnesota was named the third-best state to live by U.S. News & World Report in their most recent rankings.
Our good schools, broad-based economy, and low unemployment rates were all major contributors to our high ranking.
CD2 Meetings
Last weekend, I went to the Burnsville Library after I saw a flyer advertising a town hall meeting with or without Jason Lewis. It seems he is not making himself readily available to his constituents and he didn’t attend this meeting either.
I heard concerns ranging from health care to education, including very emotional stories about people receiving treatment under current health care law for very serious conditions. Several of the people told me they have never been politically active before. Now is the perfect time to get involved and I encourage everyone to do just that.
I hope everyone is able to enjoy the warm weather this weekend. As always, if you have questions or concerns regarding issues important to you, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Sandra Masin
State Representative