Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update about what’s happening at the Capitol this week.
Governor’s Budget Released
On Tuesday, Governor Dayton released his proposed budget to the media and legislature. Included in his proposal is more than $903 million in tax increases and an increased all-funds budget of $6.893 billion over the current budget.
But what’s more, is that even after raising billions in taxes in 2013 and with Minnesota expected to have a $1 billion surplus, Governor Dayton still wants to increase overall state spending by $1244 for every man, woman and child in our state. Folks simply can’t afford to take more out of their budget to fund unnecessary government growth.
My priorities include growing jobs in Minnesota by streamlining burdensome government regulations, putting policies in place that helps Minnesota attract and keep businesses, protecting seniors and funding our schools, roads and bridges. It seems that instead, Governor Dayton wants to take more money out of people’s pockets from Roseau to Rochester to pay for bigger government.
I disagree with much of Governor Dayton’s budget, but I am committed to working in St. Paul to find a better solution to a budget that is more responsible.
At the end of next month, the legislature will formulate their budget proposals based off the February forecast. In the meantime, House committees will hear from state agencies testifying about Dayton’s budget recommendations.
Disaster Assistance Bill
On Monday, the House unanimously passed Senate File 1, a $17 million disaster assistance bill that will reimburse certain counties from last summer’s flood and heavy rain damage. The bill matches federal transportation dollars for road repair, and funds erosion, sediment and water-quality cost-share projects on private land.
Both Roseau and Marshall Counties receive funding from the bill, and I am pleased to see this important legislation move through the House and Senate quickly, ensuring our area can receive the aid it needs to cover flood repairs.
Marshall County Mounted Posse Dinner
On Saturday, I attended the Marshall County Mounted Posse dinner and fundraiser. This nonprofit group volunteers with search and rescues in Northern Minnesota using horses, ATVs and a variety of other methods. It was fantastic to visit with these folks and hear more about their wonderful organization!
Northland Community and Technical College
Last Friday, I was fortunate to visit Northland Community and Technical College’s Thief River Falls Campus. We discussed their vision for the future, the important work they’re doing for local students and higher education priorities for this year’s session.
I would also like to congratulate Northland Community & Technical College for recently being awarded a grant under the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Minnesota Crop Research Grant Program for $250,000. The project titled “Digital Imagery, Precision Agriculture” will focus on utilizing NextGen technology and unmanned aerial systems to help farmers create yield efficiencies and promote green agricultural practices.
It was fantastic to talk with these folks last week, and I am so proud to have a superb college like Northland in my district!
Workforce Housing
This week in the Greater Minnesota Economic and Workforce Development Policy Committee, representatives heard from Larry Kruse, the City Administrator of Thief River Falls about Northwest Minnesota’s need for more workforce housing.
It was great to see our community leaders coming to the Capitol to share their ideas on this important issue.
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My door is always open to the needs and priorities of our area. Please feel free to let me know if I can be of assistance to you and your family. I am here to serve you!
Dan
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