ST. PAUL, MN — Today, Governor Dayton unveiled his proposed budget for the next two fiscal years. The state is facing a $1.1 billion budget deficit and owes its schools another $1.1 billion. Governor Dayton’s budget includes $118 million in new K-12 funding, including $52 in new money for every student, $92 million in early learning, $40 million for optional all-day Kindergarten, and $240 million in new higher education funding. The budget proposal also includes $1.4 billion in direct property tax relief through a $500 property tax rebate, and increases aid to local governments and counties by $120 million.
Rep. Mary Sawatzky (DFL – Willmar) released the following statement:
“Improving our education system and property tax relief must be two of our top priorities in crafting a budget, and I’m pleased that Governor Dayton emphasized those in his budget proposal today. For the past decade, we’ve failed to adequately invest in education, even though we know that a good education is absolutely essential to helping our children succeed and growing our economy.
“Minnesota families, farmers, and small businesses have watched their property taxes double over the last eight years. Property tax relief is long overdue and it’s something we have to get done this year.
“I’m pleased that Governor Dayton put forward a budget that balances without gimmicks, but today’s proposal is just the first step as we work to balance the budget. The legislature will receive an economic forecast in February that will provide more information and guidance. In the meantime, we will examine the governor’s proposals, listen closely to Minnesotans, and work together on a budget that will put Minnesota on a path to progress.”
Rep. Sawatzky encourages constituents to contact her with any questions, comments, concerns, or ideas on any legislative topic. Rep. Sawatzky can be reached by phone at 651-296-6206 or by email at rep.mary.sawatzky@house.mn. Constituents can also visit Rep. Sawatzky’s legislative page and sign up for email updates.