Friends,
Thank you to many of you who have visited me at the Capitol or contacted me to share your thoughts and concerns about the legislation introduced in the House. We are working hard in the legislature to make government work for you!
Improving our Business Climate
We understand that our job creators and businesses have been weighed down by decades of burdensome regulations, and are working to make the business climate better in Minnesota. We must begin by simplifying tax codes, eliminating department redundancies, and focusing on affordable, renewable energy for a brighter future in Minnesota. I look forward to continuing to meet with Shakopee business owners to discuss how we can make Minnesota government work for their businesses.
A Costly Administration
Just last night, it was reported that Governor Dayton had approved double-digit pay raises to his commissioners – who already make six-figure salaries – before the legislative session had even begun. Their pay increases, passed by the DFL-controlled legislature and signed by Governor Dayton in 2013, could cost the state more than $1.4 million over the next biennium – even worse, the bill states that the Governor can raise commissioner pay without consulting the legislature or the public!
With this news, it’s no surprise that the Governor’s budget increases spending over the next biennium. In fact, his budget will increase state spending by more than $1,244 for every Minnesota resident, raising taxes by over $900 million. Along with this increase in spending, the Governor’s priorities are out of line with Minnesotans – his budget includes no new money for nursing homes, spending on rental payments for office space for Senators, and nearly $12 million for MNsure, which we were told would be self-sustaining.
I look forward to presenting the Republican alternative over the coming weeks, ensuring that Minnesota’s government lives within its means and stewards your tax dollars wisely.
Please do not hesitate to contact me to set up a time to meet with me in St. Paul and discuss your thoughts and concerns on any legislation introduced before the House this session. You can reach my Legislative Assistant at (651) 296-9302 to schedule an appointment, or contact me directly via email at rep.bob.loonan@house.mn. If your friends and neighbors haven’t signed up to receive my updates, encourage them to do so by visiting this link.
Rep. Bob Loonan