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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Regina Barr (R)

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Legislative Update: First Session In the Books

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Friends, 


Last Friday morning, the Minnesota House of Representatives and Senate concluded the special session, passing the final bills that comprise the budget. This was a session where both sides compromised to get things done for the people of Minnesota. Republicans in the legislature came to agreement with Governor Dayton to pass the largest middle-class tax relief package in nearly two decades, made historic investments in our roads and bridges, and funded our schools to ensure every child has access to a world-class education.

The Republican-led tax bill will mean more than $650 million in tax relief—the largest tax cut in nearly two decades. It includes relief for seniors on social security, college graduates with student loan debt, and property tax relief for farmers and Minnesota businesses. In addition, the legislature approved the largest investment in road and bridge infrastructure in state history without an increase in the gas tax or license tab fees.

On Tuesday, Governor Dayton signed all budget bills and the tax relief bill. In the updates ahead, I will continue to highlight the great work we got done this session. Thank you all for entrusting me to represent our community in St. Paul. Have a great week! 

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Rep. Barr on House Floor discussing issues with her colleague

Investment in Education 

Our education budget followed a historic investment last session with even more this session. I was proud to co-author a bill this session to meet the number one priority of schools in my district -- a 2% increase in the per pupil formula for both years of the biennium. This investment, as well as key reforms to keep the best teachers in the classroom, demonstrates our commitment to making sure every child in Minnesota has access to a world-class education. 

The Pioneer Press hailed the House Republican efforts as "one of the biggest reforms to state education policy in recent history." The K-12 Education Budget partners more than $1.3 billion of increased funding with proven reforms including: ending the "Last In, First Out" default layoff policy for schools to keep the best teachers in the classroom; investing in proven early education programs like pre-K scholarships and school readiness; and overhauling the broken teacher licensure system to help hire more teachers to address the shortage. 

 


Save the date: Capitol Grand Opening

After four years and a $310 million restoration, the Minnesota State Capitol is now open to the public. Our beautiful Capitol has been returned to its former glory and is ready for the next 100 years! To commemorate this special occasion and to invite Minnesotans back to the People’s House, there will be a Grand Opening Celebration held on August 11, 12, and 13. Please mark your calendars and plan to celebrate the People’s House this summer! 


On this day in History 

In 1859, Big Ben went into operation in London. It sits atop the 320 foot tall St. Stephen’s Tower and despite the bombing of the House of Commons next door during World War 2, Big Ben continued to function. Read more here. 

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas with me. You can schedule a time to meet with me in my office any time by calling me at 651-296-4192, or share your thoughts by emailing me at rep.regina.barr@house.mn.

Have a great week,


Regina