Dear Neighbors,
It’s been a busy week here at the State Capitol. I’ve gotten to meet with many constituents to hear their thoughts on a variety of issues. If you’d like to share yours, I’d encourage you to take my short legislative survey. You can take it online here.
Budget Forecast
The state budget office this week announced the February Economic Forecast projecting a $329 million surplus. This is a change from November when a $188 million deficit was forecast. The swing is largely attributable to Congress authorizing funding for children’s health insurance and short-term revenue gains following the federal tax bill’s passage.
This is the ninth projected surplus out of the last ten forecasts. The surplus is a modest amount though, and we need to be cautious moving ahead. Responsible budgeting will ensure we can continue investing in the things we all care about, like education and health care. U.S. News and World Report ranked Minnesota the second best state in the nation this week. If we fall into a deficit, such success could be put at risk.
Opioid Awareness Day
Yesterday was Opioid Awareness Day at the Capitol. In my last update I mentioned a bipartisan package of legislation introduced by Gov. Dayton aimed at ending this epidemic. Yesterday, the bill to create an “opioid stewardship program” by enacting a penny a pill fee on painkillers received its first committee hearing. Joe Rannazzisi, a DEA whistleblower who appeared last fall on 60 Minutes to shine a light on the pharmaceutical industry’s role in this epidemic, provided powerful testimony. I’m committed to working alongside Sen. Chris Eaton and others to take meaningful action to save lives this session.
Gun Violence Bills
Since the tragic events in Parkland, Florida two weeks ago, I’ve heard from many of you. Yesterday the House Public Safety Committee heard two bills. The first would expand criminal background checks for gun sales. The second would create “Gun Violence Protection Orders,” allowing law enforcement or family members to petition a court to remove access to a person’s guns if they are determined to pose an immediate danger to themselves or others. Both bills were “laid on the table,” or set aside without an official vote. I’m confident the conversation about this topic will continue here at the Legislature and throughout the country.
Please continue to keep in touch about what’s important to you. Feel free to call or email me anytime.
Sincerely,
Debra Hilstrom
State Representative