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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Ryan Winkler (DFL)

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Statements from Speaker Hortman and Majority Leader Winkler on Governor Walz’s budget proposal

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

St. Paul, Minnesota — Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman and Majority Leader Ryan Winkler released the following statements on the budget proposal released today by Governor Tim Walz:

“Minnesotans expect the state budget to help them weather this pandemic and then thrive once it ends. Governor Walz’s budget reflects the values of Minnesotans and incorporates the reality that COVID-19 has hit some people and businesses harder than others,” said Speaker Hortman. “Minnesota is a state of abundance — we have abundant natural resources, thriving corporations and non-profits, a talented population, and higher income per capita than most states. We can and should use the budget to invest in Minnesota and in Minnesotans to ensure economic opportunity for everyone. The House looks forward to working with the Governor and the Minnesota Senate over the session to produce a budget that serves the needs of Minnesotans. I commend the Governor for a budget that moves in a bold and progressive direction.

“The Minnesota House DFL majority has begun discussing our budget priorities in committee, with House budget targets likely by March 22nd and our proposed complete budget by April 9th. We invite Minnesotans to engage in conversation with us through communicating with members and participating in our committee hearings and town halls to weigh in on our budget proposals as we work to shape a budget that reflects their values and meets their needs.

“We look forward to receiving the upcoming February budget forecast as another key building block in setting the stage for this year's budget debate at the State Capitol.”

“Standing up for Minnesota workers and families hit hardest by the pandemic must be the Legislature’s top priority right now," said Majority Leader Ryan Winkler. "COVID-19 has further divided Minnesota by income and race, and we cannot just return to the pre-pandemic status quo of haves and have-nots. A state government that serves the rich and well-connected is not doing the work of the people.”