Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Here is an update with the latest news from St. Paul.
Special Session
The Governor called a special session for last Friday at 10am to pass the rest of the state budget. The process was not at all transparent, with most bills being decided by a “tribunal” of the Governor, the Speaker, and the Senate Majority Leader. Several of the bills weren’t even finished being written by the time session started on Friday.
Final Bills
Many of the most controversial provisions, like the 70% gas tax increase, gun control, and the $68 million cut to nursing homes across the state, were dropped from the final bills. There were several things accomplished that will help Minnesotans, like an extension of the reinsurance program to help keep insurance premiums under control, maintaining dedicated road and bridge funding, increased school funding, and additional money for safe schools. I was incredibly disappointed to see the Sick Tax come back in the Tax bill at 1.8%, raising health care costs on nearly every doctor visit, medical procedure, and hospital stay.
Stay In Touch!
It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. I am here to serve you!
Like and follow my Facebook page for updates: www.facebook.com/RepDebKiel
Sincerely,
Deb