Dear Neighbors,
Friday marked the release of Minnesota Management and Budget’s February forecast. This prediction shows a $900 million surplus for Minnesota in fiscal years 2016-2017. This is somewhat lower than the $1.2 billion surplus in November, but still allows us an opportunity to assist taxpayers across the state.
One of the major reasons for the lower projection is the slowing of the Obama/Dayton economy. There’s no question that seven years of Barack Obama has started to slow our national economy which obviously impacts us here in Minnesota.
In order to help jumpstart our economy, we can allow Minnesotans to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks. Providing tax relief for recent college grads, small business owners, senior citizens, and military veterans puts more money in the pockets of middle-class families across the state, leading to more expendable income for goods and services.
Along with tax relief, funding our roads and bridges remains a top priority for Republicans in the Minnesota House. While Democrats may once again push for a regressive gas tax increase, the surplus shows we can properly fund roads and bridges without raising your taxes.
The legislative session is just days away, and I hope you will contact me with any questions, concerns, or suggestions. You can reach me at 651-296-5185 or rep.tony.albright@house.mn.
Enjoy your weekend,
Tony