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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jim Newberger (R)

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News from Representative Newberger 04-10-2015

Friday, April 10, 2015
Dear Friends,

Two quick items this week:

State of the State
Governor Dayton gave his annual State of the State address this week. It was great to have Ron Brevig, the manager of the Sherco Power Plant with me as my guest. Sherco is the economic heart of our district, and I have great concerns about the Governor's hostility toward coal and a true "all of the above" energy policy.

Hundreds of families rely on these jobs. I will continue working to protect these jobs, and promote a true "all of the above" energy policy that keeps energy costs low for families.

Transportation
The Governor listed transportation as one of his top priorities during his speech yesterday, but made no mention of his plan to increase the very regressive gas tax by at least sixteen cents per gallon.

We know the gas tax hurts low and middle-income families, seniors living on fixed income, and Minnesotans who have to travel long distances to get to work.

That's why Republicans put together a plan that puts $7 billion dollars over 10 yearsinto our state's roads and bridges using existing sales taxes from auto parts, vehicle leases, and rental cars.

Even supporters of the gas tax admit that as cars get more fuel efficient, less gas will be sold in the coming years, making the gas tax an outdated approach that is unlikely to continue to provide the funds necessary to maintain our roads and bridges.

Vehicle rentals, car leases, and auto parts will continue to be a steady source of revenue for years to come, making this a truly future-oriented approach to funding our roads.

If you haven't yet, please take my online survey. I will be closing the online version on Monday so we can tabulate the results. If you would like a copy mailed to you, please call my office at 651-296-2451. Click here to take my survey.

I always welcome your comments and feedback at rep.jim.newberger@house.mn. Thank you for the continued privilege of serving our community.

Have a great weekend. God's peace,

Jim

 

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