ST. PAUL – State Representative Jason Rarick (R-Pine City) said there were more positives than negatives to be found in Minnesota's recent state budget forecast, which shows a $1.65 billion budget surplus. This is roughly $250 million more than the previous projection made in November.

“It’s good news because it shows our economy is doing well,” Rarick said. “But we have to remember, another way of saying surplus is saying we overtaxed Minnesotans.”

Rising state income tax projections, up by $274 million, and corporate tax projections, up $69 million, are the top reasons Minnesota’s budget surplus has grown.

Rarick expects many lawmakers to come forward with new and unique ways to spend the projected $1.65 billion windfall. But he said the time is right to give middle class Minnesotans needed tax relief.

“There are programs we need to invest in, with roads and bridges near the top of that list, but we can’t lose sight of the fact that we’ve overtaxed Minnesotans and we need to allow them to keep more of what they earn,” Rarick concluded.