Dear Neighbors,
We got right back to work here at the Capitol after the Easter/Passover break. Time is running out for the 2018 session and we have a lot left to do. Here are some updates from St. Paul:
Show Us the Bills
We’re now only six weeks from the end of session and we have yet to see the Republican majority’s tax conformity and bonding bills. Gov. Dayton had his homework done and in front of the public well over a month ago.
The people of Minnesota deserve a chance to judge the proposals put forth and, even more importantly, comment on them.
Delay in Securing Minnesota’s Pension System
Minnesota’s pension system is under significant stress and in need of a workable solution quickly. One bipartisan fix would require workers and employers to put in a bit more, and then pay out slightly less to retired workers over time. This fix cuts billions from future liabilities while securing the retirement of hundreds of thousands of dedicated professionals who gave their careers to our state.
The Senate has already passed it unanimously, so I urge the House majority to bring it up for a vote as soon as possible.
Equal Pay Day
Tuesday was Equal Pay Day. This is the day when the salaries of women finally catch up with men’s salaries from the previous year. In Minnesota, women earn 83 cents for every dollar a man makes. We have more work to do to close the gap and our unions are an important tool in ensuring equal pay for equal work.
Visits at the Capitol
Now that we’re back from Easter/Passover break, visits from constituents are resuming. Monday was Social Worker Day at the Capitol and I had the pleasure of hosting two groups of students from MSU-Mankato.
Monday evening, I attended the legislative event hosted by the NCSRCC Carpenters. They represent thousands of union professionals and are instrumental in Minnesota construction.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Jack Considine
State Representative