Dear Friends and Neighbors,
It’s week two of the legislative session. Here is the latest news from the Capitol.
Budget Forecast Shows Surplus
On Wednesday, the February budget forecast was released showing a $329 million surplus—an improvement of more than $500 million from the November forecast.
The big picture from this forecast is that tax relief at the state and federal level is working and spurring a stronger and healthier economy. My goal is to continue to advance policies that ensure hardworking taxpayers can keep more of their paychecks and limit government growth.
MNLARS Update
This week a bill was introduced in the House that would require the Dayton Administration to utilize $10 million in current funding within the executive branch to fund the first down payment to fix our state’s broken licensing system, MNLARS. The Administration is claiming they need another $43 million to fix MNLARS (on top of the nearly $100 million taxpayers have already spent to build the failed system), with $10 million needed immediately.
This program has been a catastrophe from the start, and taxpayers, citizens and businesses who have run into problems with the MNLARS system deserve answers, accountability and a functioning licensing system.
Subcommittee on Workplace Safety & Respect Meets
On Monday, the new Subcommittee on Workplace Safety & Respect had its first meeting. The subcommittee will deliver recommendations to lawmakers on policy changes after engaging with the public, employment law professionals, and other experts regarding harassment and discrimination.
It’s an important issue, and I look forward to gathering input about the best ways we can ensure the Minnesota House is always a safe, respectful and welcoming place for staff, members, lobbyists, press and citizens.
Keep Track of Developments on the East Metro 3M Settlement
For those interested in keeping up with the latest news on the $850 million 3M settlement for South Washington County communities, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Department of Natural Resources are sending out regular email updates. You can sign up for those updates here, as well as find the link for the 3M settlement webpage with more information.
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As always, if you have ideas about what you would like to see happen this session or need assistance on a matter of state government, I welcome you to contact me. Please don’t hesitate to call (651-296-1147), email (rep.kelly.fenton@house.mn) or stop by my office.
Sincerely,
Kelly
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