Friends,
The second week of session has concluded and it was a busy one. Minnesota Management and Budget released the February Forecast and it showed a marked improvement from November's; more about that great news below. Bills are being heard in committee and it's so great to see so many of you come to the Capitol to meet about the issues that are important to you. If you are going to be at the Capitol, please reach out to my office and set up a meeting. It's always great to hear from my constituents. Have a great weekend!
Rep. Barr with Inver Grove Heights students who attend Academic Arts High School
Budget Forecast: Surplus for Minnesota
The February forecast was released on Wednesday, February 28th, and showed a projected $329 million forecast. During the 2017 session, we passed a common-sense budget that funded our shared priorities like education and passed tax reform to make sure Minnesotans kept more of their hard-earned dollars in their own pockets. The forecasted budget surplus shows these are working for Minnesota's economy and setting our state up for a bright future.
The $329 million surplus is an over half-billion dollar improvement from the November forecast that predicted a $188 million deficit.
Hearing on Toll Roads
One of the bills we've heard early this session was the prospect of expanding toll roads in Minnesota as a way to relieve congestion and pay for road upkeep. It was a long-term feasibility study, so nothing is imminent, but it was an informative presentation bringing up many of the positives and negatives of expanding toll roads in Minnesota. KSTP did s brief story on the hearing and included some of my questioning in the piece, which can be seen here. I would love to hear your thoughts on this as an option to relieve congestion in the metro area! Send me an email with your thoughts.
Interview with House Information
Earlier this year, I sat down with nonpartisan House Information Services to preview the upcoming session and talk a bit about my first year in the legislature. Click here or below to watch the quick interview.
In Case You Missed It: Tour around 52B!
Late last summer, we put together a video that highlights some of the great and beautiful parts of District 52B, which encompasses Inver Grove Heights, Sunfish Lake, parts of Mendota Heights and Eagan. I think it turned out very well and am proud to represent such a fantastic place to live. Check out the video here!
On this day in History
Green Eggs and Ham. The Cat in the Hat. One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish. Just a few of the great children's books by Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, who was born on this day in 1904.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas with me. You can schedule a time to meet with me in my office anytime 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