Dear neighbor,
Governor Dayton released his budget proposal this week, proposing $37.9 billion in state spending for the next two years—a 7.6% increase in spending paid for by an astonishing 11.9% increase in taxes. Governor Dayton has talked for several months about a balanced approach to the budget, so it’s puzzling that he would propose a budget that includes $3.7 billion dollars in tax increases and only $225 million dollars in cuts (a 16:1 ratio of tax increases to spending cuts). I have concerns with how his budget will affect middle-class families, job creators, and the education of our students.
Instead of working to streamline government and reduce spending, he is asking middle class families to foot the bill for billions of dollars in new spending. His budget would tax haircuts, car repairs, over-the-counter medicines, and for the first time ever, clothing.
92% of businesses in Minnesota file through individual tax returns and would be hurt by Governor Dayton’s tax hike on the “wealthiest 2%.” These businesses are our job creators, and many in the business community are worried that this proposed tax increase will cause jobs and economic activity to leave Minnesota. I firmly believe that the path to prosperity comes from fostering job-friendly policies rather than taxing small businesses and expanding the size of government.
One of my top priorities is paying back the school shift—a priority that has been supported by Republicans and Democrats alike with members of both parties proposing legislation that would pay back most of the remaining balance of the school shift. However, Governor Mark Dayton breaks his promise to end gimmicks by delaying paying back the school shift until 2017.
The Minnesota Legislature now has the task of debating this budget proposal, and I welcome your feedback and questions as we work towards a final budget that will hopefully make Minnesota a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
Commission on National and Community Service
On Tuesday, January 22nd, I was appointed by Speaker Paul Thissen to the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service. The Commission plays a vital role in encouraging a culture of community service and responsibility in Minnesota.
For more information on the commission, what they do, and volunteer programs here in Minnesota, please visit http://www.serveminnesota.org.
Dakota County Legislative Priorities
On Friday, January 25th I attended an event hosted by the Dakota County board where we learned about the county's legislative priorities for the 2013 session.
Priorities included:
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Obtaining Legacy Fund dollars to improve local parks and trails.
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Seeking funding to develop and repair local roads such as Trunk Highway 77 and 3, and regional transitways on Cedar Avenue, I-35W, and Robert Street.
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Upgrades to computers that will improve the ability of the county to verify information, enter data, and process paperwork; which would save time and money.
I look forward to working closely with the Dakota County Board as session continues to make sure their concerns and goals are given proper consideration at the Capitol.
For more information on Dakota County services, please visit their website.
March for Life
On Tuesday, January 22nd, I joined thousands of fellow Minnesotans at the March for Life sponsored by MCCL on the steps of the State Capitol. It was so encouraging to see thousands of Pro-Life supporters braving the bitter cold to promote a cause so important to many Minnesotans.
Sales Taxes
If you haven't had a chance to look at the long list of goods and services that would be taxed under Governor Dayton's budget plan, click here. The list is exhaustive, and includes dozens of goods and services used by families every day.
Have a wonderful week,
Anna Wills
State Representative, District 57B