Dear Neighbors,
Minnesota Management & Budget issued its February economic forecast on Monday, and it projects a $9.3 billion budget surplus. That figure is up $1.5 billion from the already historic $7.7 billion surplus projected in November.
Such a large surplus is evidence that Minnesotans are overtaxed. As we consider what to do, we must remember that ultimately the budget surplus belongs to you—the people of Minnesota.
Moving forward, I will be advocating to return this surplus back to Minnesotans through permanent and significant tax relief. This could include eliminating the state tax on social security or through a variety of other ways.
Either way, it is unacceptable that Minnesota government has over collected more than $9 billion from hardworking Minnesotans when so many are struggling from the effects of the Biden/Walz economy that has led to soaring inflation and rising energy costs.
We should also use a portion of the surplus to restore the state’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) fund to make sure that small businesses in our area do not receive a significant tax hike. Businesses have suffered greatly over the last 2 years. The last thing they need is a tax hike that is avoidable if we replenish this fund.
Public Safety
This week, House Republicans unveiled our 2022 public safety priorities. The package focused on three key areas; crime prevention and accountability for criminals; police recruitment and retention, and holding the criminal justice system accountable.
It’s clear that crime and public safety are top of mind for Minnesotans, and I am committed to working with law enforcement to make sure they have the resources they need to keep our communities safe.
For years, we have been working to improve the safety of Minnesotans while meeting resistance every step of the way from Governor Walz and DFLers. I am hopeful that they will join us this year in prioritizing public safety.
Staying in Touch
Please be sure to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-6746 or via email at rep.sondra.erickson@house.mn.
Have a good day,
Sondra