Dear neighbor,
Last week, Minnesota Management and Budget released the February economic forecast. This allows lawmakers to move forward in crafting a responsible and transparent budget based on projections of state revenues and expenses. Please check out my first video update below to hear about the recent state budget forecast:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkZCmprJ5_E&feature=youtu.be
If you have any ideas for future video updates, please let me know. I would also encourage you to take my legislative survey online: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/5SSBZ38.
The budget situation has improved from a projected $1.1 billion deficit in November to $627 million today. This is due to above average job recovery in Minnesota. We are outpacing the nation in job recovery and are set to be back to pre-recession levels of employment by the end of the year.
While this is good news, we still unfortunately face a large budget deficit. We have an important opportunity to fix the cycle of budget deficits that have faced our state 8 out of the last 10 years. It’s time to set our state on stable financial footing and look to the future. Smart investments now in transportation infrastructure, education and small business opportunities will grow our economy for years to come.
Please contact me directly with any questions, comments, or concerns on any issue. I value your input. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-7803 or by email at rep.paul.rosenthal@house.mn. Please contact me anytime I can be of assistance.
Sincerely,
Paul Rosenthal
State Representative
Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina and Minnetonka