Dear Neighbors,
Today marks the first day of the 2016 legislative session. With the restoration of the State Capitol still ongoing, the session will be extremely short. According to the Minnesota State Constitution, we must adjourn for the year by May 23. This means that we will only have roughly ten weeks to complete our work at the Capitol.
The shortest regular legislative session in modern Minnesota history was in 1986 with just 47 days in session, and it’s possible this year will see fewer. Traditionally, the even year of the biennium is given to the bonding bill, which funds capital improvements to Minnesota’s infrastructure needs in areas like higher education, public safety, wastewater treatment, parks and trails, and others. Because the 2015 session adjourned with a considerable number of substantive issues left unaddressed, 2016 will ensure a hectic pace.
I am committed to working on a bipartisan level to find common ground on property tax relief targeted at homeowners, renters, seniors, and small businesses, passing a bill that funds a long term transportation plan in a responsible way, and taking action to address the student loan debt crisis. Together, the legislature can build upon an economy that works for all Minnesotans.
I am honored by the opportunity to represent you at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Ron Erhardt
State Representative