Dear Neighbors,
I hope you’re enjoying the warm weather this week! As spring approaches, it’s time for the legislative session to reconvene in St. Paul. We’re heading back tomorrow, and have a lot to accomplish before we close out the biennium in May.
REAL ID Working Group
As you know, REAL ID is set to be one of the main points of discussion in the early days of session. To prepare for this debate, the REAL ID Working Group met one final time before Tuesday where we discussed language to repeal the 2009 law that banned REAL ID implementation.
I hope we take this up early in session so the Department of Public Safety can start the planning process and report to the Legislature as to the cost and implementation steps. At the same time, we have to remember that REAL ID presents significant privacy concerns that must be addressed as we learn more about this topic.
Budget Surplus
Recently, we learned our state will see a $900 million budget surplus, somewhat lower than the $1.2 billion predicted in December. One of the reasons for the slower growth is a reduction in sales tax revenue. People have less spending money and aren’t stimulating the economy as expected. This means we need to advocate for tax relief for middle class Minnesota families.
Golden Rule Visit
Last Monday, I toured the Golden Rule Child Care Center in Andover. This facility is a shining example of how to assist our toddlers and preschoolers in their development. Thank you to Golden Rule Director, Tami Mielke.
Contact Me
Now that the Legislature will be back in session, I hope you’ll schedule an appointment to visit me in St. Paul. If you have any questions or concerns about any legislative issues, please contact me! You can email me at rep.peggy.scott@house.mn or call me at 651-296-4231.
Sincerely,
Peggy