Dear Neighbors,
Spring is officially here and the pace continues to pick up as we work through bill deadlines.
Here’s an update from the Capitol:
Governor’s State of the State and Budget
On Wednesday night last week, Governor Dayton gave his final State of the State address. The speech was a reminder that when we prioritize fiscal stability and security in our state, we can invest in the values that make Minnesota a great place to live. Inheriting a $6.2 billion deficit and coming out ahead with a modest surplus is a tremendous accomplishment; our high national ratings on economic growth, high school graduation rates, and places to work, raise a family and retire should be recognized as a result of the hard work we have invested in our state.
Additionally last week on Friday, Governor Dayton released his supplemental budget plan. As we work through various committees over the coming weeks, the legislature will begin to create our own version of a supplemental budget. I’ll keep you posted on our progress as we move forward.
MNLARS
Yesterday, the House and Senate finalized a compromise to deliver a one-time emergency transfer of $10 million from existing driver and vehicle services operating accounts to fix MNLARS. The compromised bill will appropriate the funds to the Department of Public Safety to continue and speed up progress on titles, tabs and other essential DMV functions.
The bill passed nearly unanimously in both the House and Senate and the Governor has signed it. Although I’m disappointed it took this long, I’m glad a solution was reached.
Protecting MN Seniors from Abuse
Last year, the Star Tribune published a series that detailed serious abuses, sexual assault, and other mistreatment going uninvestigated in Minnesota’s senior care facilities. After investigations by AARP and the Office of the Legislative Auditor, my colleagues and Iannounced a broad set of reforms and investments in step with Governor Dayton to hold providers guilty of abuse accountable and protect the health, safety, and dignity of seniors and vulnerable adults.
I’m committed to making sure we do everything we can to ensure this kind of abuse never happens again. Our elderly parents, grandparents, neighbors and friends deserve to live with safety, security and dignity.
March for Our Lives
Several of you have reached out to me to inquire about how your voice can be heard beyond contacting legislators on gun safety.
Tomorrow morning, Minnesota students and allies across the state are marching in Saint Paul from Harriet Island to the State Capitol to demand action on gun violence prevention from legislative leaders. This coordinated effort stems from a student rally organized in Washington, D.C. and has spread to communities across the country. You can learn more details of the event here.
The momentum continues to build; I hope you and your family and friends can join the movement to speak out in support of common sense gun violence prevention measures.
Please stay in touch and keep me updated on what’s important to you. I value your input and appreciate hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Paul