ST. PAUL, MN - State Representative Zachary Dorholt (DFL – St. Cloud) was officially sworn in as the District 14B State Representative as the 88th Legislative Session convened at noon on January 8th at the State Capitol. Rep. Dorholt is beginning his first term in the Minnesota House of Representatives serving the St. Cloud area.
“I’m honored and humbled to be serving our communities at the State Capitol,” said Rep. Dorholt. “Minnesotans have clearly said that they want their legislators to work together, focus on the basics, and get the job done. I intend to listen, learn, work with my colleagues, and do everything I can to make our state a better place.”
Economic forecasts revealed early last month that lawmakers must tackle a $1.1 billion budget shortfall this year. When the money still owed to schools and inflation is included the shortfall rises to over $3 billion.
“For too long our state has been on a roller coaster of budget deficits, and that has left us facing a number of challenges,” said Rep. Dorholt. “We need to work together to find solutions, balance the budget responsibly, and work to keep our economy moving forward.”
With the many challenges facing the state, Rep. Dorholt signaled a desire to work in a bipartisan fashion on solutions to the challenges facing the state.
“I’ve frequently said that I’m a professional listener and I intend to use those skills at the Capitol,” added Dorholt. “I will listen to my colleagues, no matter which side of the aisle they’re on, and if they truly want to find solutions, I’ll be ready and willing to work with them.”
Much of the work finding solutions will begin in legislative hearings throughout the coming weeks and months. This session Rep. Dorholt will serve as the Vice Chair of the Higher Education Finance and Policy Committee, and as a member of the Government Operations, and Transportation Policy Committees.
“I’m very pleased to be serving on these committees — especially the Higher Education Policy and Finance Committee, which is of great importance to the St. Cloud area,” said Dorholt. “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work on these issues.”
Throughout the legislative session, Rep. Dorholt encourages all constituents to contact him directly with any questions, comments, or concerns on any legislative issue. Rep. Dorholt can be reached by phone at (651) 296-6612 or by email at rep.zachary.dorholt@house.mn.
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