Dear Northlanders,
We are quickly approaching the legislative session adjournment deadline of May 22. Legislative leaders and Governor Dayton are engaged in budget talks, working on a compromise to end the 2017 session on time.
The House and Senate Republican majorities are still far apart from Governor Dayton in their budget offers. With two weeks to go before adjournment, more compromise is needed to invest in the things that Minnesotans value. Unfortunately, Republicans decided to walk away from the negotiating table and send Governor Dayton budget bills which the Governor has told them he will veto.
Governor Dayton’s proposal invests in education on all levels and builds a better Minnesota through efficiency and accountability. The Republican budget leaves most of us behind by choosing massive tax cuts for the wealthy and cuts to things we value. With a $1.65 billion budget surplus, deep cuts are outrageous.
Republicans are choosing to cut education, including pre-K, and underfund our schools and higher education, causing larger class sizes, cuts to electives and after school activities, and higher tuition. The Republican budget slashes transit statewide, making it difficult for those dependent on public transportation to get to their jobs and medical appointments.
The Republican budget makes deep cuts to our most vulnerable residents, hurting those who need help the most. The Republican budget radically underfunds transportation – which has been starved for years – and continues to fall behind by millions every year as our roads and bridges fail. The Republican budget underfunds the building and infrastructure bill – at a time when interest rates are low. At a time of surplus, it’s essential that we invest in the things that have made Minnesota’s economy strong.
With less than two weeks left of the Session, I’ll continue to be engaged with our legislative leaders and Governor Dayton as we work for a compromise that prioritizes the things Minnesota values in order to build a better future for everyone.
Sincerely,
Rob Ecklund
State Representative