Dear Neighbors,
The legislative session starts on Tuesday, March 8th. Last week Minnesota Management and Budget announced that our budget surplus dropped from $1.2 billion to $900 million. Minnesota’s economy and budget remain stable, but national economic forces are creating uncertainty.
There is also uncertainty for many Minnesotans who are feeling squeezed by an economy that’s leaving too many behind. Our relentless focus this session should be in providing opportunity for Minnesotans so that our economy is working for all of us, not just the wealthy or politically-connected few.
That’s why I’m committed to making sure we use the surplus in a balanced way that invests in key priorities that matter for ordinary Minnesotans and provides targeted tax relief. That includes finding a long term solution to our statewide transportation and transit funding issues, getting dark money out of politics, ensuring that Minnesotans have paid family leave and earned sick time, and making investments in early childhood education and tackling our student debt crisis.
Minnesota’s Caucuses
Aside from the election in 2014, Minnesota has almost always led the country in civic engagement and voter participation. I believe that’s because of our strong civic ethic and commitment to our communities. It was nice to see both in person and through reports of the large turnout for major party caucuses on Tuesday. When Minnesotans have their voices heard we’re a stronger state.
Women’s History Month
Governor Dayton declared March to be Women’s History Month. That announcement came on the heels of a report showing that Minnesota leads the nation in women’s economic and social well-being. You can see Governor Dayton’s press release here, the proclamation here, and the report ranking women’s well-being here.
As always, feel free to contact me with any thoughts or concerns you may have. I look forward to making sure your voice is heard at the State Capitol during the upcoming legislative session.
Sincerely,
Sandra Masin