The March 8 start of session is quickly approaching, and things in St. Paul are getting busier and busier. I’m proud of what we accomplished in my first session in 2015, and look forward to working on important issues – like education reform, tax relief, and transportation funding – when we reconvene in a couple weeks.
Of my four committee assignments at the Capitol, three are related to education. Last session, we took great strides in helping Minnesota students from prekindergarten to our universities. I supported funding for early learning initiatives by voting for $48 million in early learning scholarships for families in need, and $30 million for school readiness. Targeting aid to families and students who need it most assists those who require a helping hand, but doesn’t constrain school districts with all-day pre-k as Governor Dayton pushed for. Along with more adequate education funding, we instituted reforms to increase access to highly qualified out-of-state teacher candidates. Educational success in Minnesota means more than just proper funding; it’s also student-focused reforms that make a difference.
Tax relief will also be a central point of discussion and debate. Last year, a compromise was not reached on an omnibus tax bill because of Democrats’ insistence on an unneeded gas tax. This year, we’ll continue to push for tax relief that helps you and your family. Our plan from 2015 contained provisions to ease the burden on veterans, senior citizens, small business owners, and recent college graduates. As our state continues to have a growing $1.2 billion surplus, it’s imperative the Legislature do its part to provide tax relief for Minnesotans throughout the state.
A comprehensive transportation plan is also in the works for 2016. Last session, our plan called for $7 billion of transportation funding over the next 10 years WITHOUT raising taxes on Minnesota families. We must do what we can to improve our crumbling roads and bridges throughout the state while ensuring Minnesotans keep more of their hard-earned paychecks.
During the interim, I’ve enjoyed speaking with residents around the district to find out what’s most important to our area. In the days leading up to and during the legislative session, please contact me with any ideas or suggestions. The best concepts for legislation come from you, the people of Minnesota, and I can’t wait to hear how we can work together to improve this state.
###