Dear neighbors,
The second month of the legislative session is coming to a close. Bills are starting to be heard and pass through committees, and we’ve begun the process of setting the state budget for the next two years.
Second Saturdays
Please join me this Saturday, March 9 at Mayflower Church for my monthly meeting with community members. All are welcome at this free event. Contact Zach at zach.zimmerman@house.mn with questions.
When: Saturday, March 9 from 9:30 to 11:30am
Where: Mayflower Church, 100 E. Diamond Lake Road, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Energy and Climate
After hosting a series of informational meetings on climate change with scientists from the University of Minnesota, the Energy and Climate Finance and Policy Division has begun hearing proposals for preventing climate change and helping Minnesota adapt to the changes we’re already experiencing. You can find more information on the bills that we’ve heard and audio and video archives from previous public hearings here.
Channel 6 will be re-airing my interview from The Mary Hanson Show this week. Watch the discussion of the environmental issues we’re facing and possible solutions here.
Budget Forecast and Proposal
Governor Walz recently released his Budget for One Minnesota, recommendations for the state budget for the next two years. It prioritizes education, health care, and community prosperity. Read more about the state budget plan at mn.gov/governor/budget.
Minnesota’s economic forecast was released last Thursday. The revised forecast shows about a $1 billion surplus, one-third less than the nearly $1.5 billion surplus projected in November. More details are available here.
Governor Walz’s proposal and the updated forecast are the first steps in a long budget negotiation process. Over the next several weeks, we’ll be going over the details and having in-depth discussions about specific components of the plan as we craft a budget that works for all Minnesotans.
Please feel free to reach out with your questions or concerns regarding the environment, the state budget, or other issues that are important to you. I always appreciate hearing from constituents.
Sincerely,
Jean Wagenius
State Representative