Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update with the latest news from the Capitol.
Budget Negotiations
We are nearing the end of the legislative session, and we are committed to getting our work done on time for the people and priorities of our state. Legislators in the House and Senate already came to an agreement on a balanced budget that includes meaningful tax relief, investments in our transportation infrastructure, and putting more money in every classroom while responsibly funding state government over the next biennium. These bills, which were crafted in open and transparent conference committees, all included bipartisan initiatives including those championed by the governor and his agencies.
After Governor Dayton vetoed those bills, we have continued to work to negotiate with him, making significant movements in an effort to find common ground.
I will share more with you soon as we work toward a final agreement.
Real ID Compliance Signed into Law
Some great news this week for folks concerned about being able to continue to use your Minnesota-issued driver’s license to board a domestic flight or visit a federal facility. The House and Senate came to a bipartisan agreement on Real ID compliance, a federal law passed in 2005, and sent the bill to Governor Dayton who signed it into law.
Without this action, beginning in 2018, a state-issued ID would no longer have been valid to board a plane at the airport. When going to the DMV, people will have the option to opt in or opt out of the Real ID requirements. We wanted to ensure that we complied with the federal laws which make it more difficult for potential terrorists to obtain fake ID cards, giving folks peace of mind that their state-issued driver’s license will continue to be a valid form of identification across the country.
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It’s an honor to be your voice at the Capitol. Have a wonderful weekend!
Sincerely,
Tama