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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen (R)

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News from Representative Gruenhagen 02-27-2015

Friday, February 27, 2015
Dear Friends,

Today, the Minnesota Management and Budget Office gave us an update on our state's budget situation. It was revealed that Minnesota has a surplus of $1.869 billion for the 2016-2017 budget cycle. It's good to see continued strength from Minnesota's economy, and that our budget is in good shape thanks to the hard work and productivity of Minnesotans.

Now that we have a fuller picture of our state's budget situation, legislators will begin piecing together our 2016-2017 budget proposals. I'm committed to making sure our state is spending your tax dollars effectively, and not wasting money on silly projects like pay raises for commissioners or new office buildings for politicians. I will keep you up to date in the coming weeks as budget proposals begin to take shape.

Poll Results

KSTP released a poll this week covering a wide range of issues. The results showed that Minnesotans support the Republican approach on a wide range of issues.

On Transportation:

75% of Minnesotans support the House Republican approach that invests $750 million in roads and bridges using parts of the budget surplus. 51% disapprove of Governor Dayton's plan that increases the gas tax and the Metro-area sales tax.

Pay Raises

70% of Minnesotans disapprove of the Governor's decision to singlehandedly increase salaries for his commissioners. 74% agree with the Republican proposal passed this week that requires legislative approval for future commissioner salary increases.

Last In, First Out

80% of Minnesotans support the House Republican approach taken in House File 2, our top education bill, which requires that teacher effectiveness be considered when school districts make layoff decisions, rather than the seniority system that is in place now. Only 11% of Minnesotans support a seniority-only system.

These poll results make clear that Minnesotans are in support many of the common-sense solutions being put forward by the Republican House Majority.

For more details on the poll results, read the KSTP story here.

Have a great weekend,

Glenn