Friends,
On the morning of Friday May 26th, the Minnesota House of Representatives and Senate concluded a brief special session by passing the final bills that comprise the state's budget. After a break to observe Memorial Day, Governor Mark Dayton signed the budget bills and tax relief package that he and legislative leaders negotiated over the previous weeks. But in doing so Governor Dayton line item vetoed funding for the legislature, something I do not believe he has the constitutional authority to do.
This session was defined by bipartisan compromise between the Republican Legislators and Governor Dayton. I am particularly proud of delivering the largest tax relief in nearly two decades, making the largest investment in our roads and bridges in history without raising taxes, and increasing school funding while also adding much needed reforms to make sure the best teachers stay in the classroom. We made great strides this session to make Minnesota a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
The Republican-led tax bill will mean more than $650 million in tax relief—the largest tax cut in nearly two decades over half of which is directed at middle-class Minnesotans. It includes relief for seniors on social security, college graduates with student loan debt, and property tax relief for Minnesota small businesses. In addition, Republicans championed and 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.
We also followed up on historic investments in education last session with a continuing commitment to advocate for students, schools, and educators. In total, $1.35 billion in new money is put towards educating our students. That includes funds dedicated to proven early learning programs for our littlest learners and their families. The education bill fulfills the request from our local schools to increase the per pupil formula and also makes key reforms in order to keep the best teachers in the classroom.
Unfortunately, the governor took an unprecedented and unconstitutional step to defund the Legislature, attempting to silence both the House and Senate for the next four years. It isn't right to eliminate an entire branch of government just because we have different principles -- Minnesotans like you elected both of us. As a result, the Legislature is seeking outside counsel in an effort to defend your voice and your representation at the Capitol. After such a productive session, his behavior is disappointing.
Overall, this was one of the most productive legislative sessions in recent history and will help to make Minnesota an even better place to call home. As always, please continue to stay in touch to share your thoughts and ideas. You can schedule a time to meet with me in my office any time by calling my office at (651) 296-9463, or share your thoughts via email by emailing me at rep.drew.christensen@house.mn.
Have a great summer,
Drew