Greetings,
BUDGET SURPLUS NOW, BUDGET DEFICIT LATER
On Thursday, state lawmakers learned that Minnesota is projected to see a $3.7 billion budget surplus for the remainder of this budget cycle but will face a $1.5 billion budget deficit during our next budget cycle. There’s little doubt the upcoming projected shortfall was caused by irresponsible fiscal decisions made by the majority party last year, when a $17 billion surplus was spent, an additional $10 billion in taxes were raised, and state government spending had increased by 40%. Spending people’s money doesn’t help taxpayers, and this is money we should have given back to them.
Because Minnesota requires a balanced budget, the short-term surplus funding will need to be dedicated before session ends. Please know that I will be fighting for fiscal restraint as discussions move forward, and I will keep you posted on the decisions being made in the Minnesota House as they become available.
HELPING THE LABOR SHORTAGE
This week, the Minnesota House Commerce Committee heard my bill that would allow a 17-year-old waiter or waitress to serve alcoholic beverages at a bar or restaurant. Current law requires anyone serving alcohol to be aged 18 or older.
Under this bill, 17-year-olds would receive the same training and supervision as other staff members serving alcohol. To me, the legislation is a win-win situation: It gives business owners a choice to employ high school juniors and seniors and develop a working relationship, and it gives 17-year-olds another work opportunity that could lead to significant tip revenue that they could use to help pay for college. It also addresses some of the labor problems being found in the hospitality industry. The proposal was held over for possible inclusion in an omnibus liquor bill that will be unveiled later this session.
LOCAL VISITORS
‘Firefighter Day at the Capitol’ took place this week, and Senator Howe, Representative Perryman and I were pleased to meet with a number of fire officials from our area.
A number of local physicians stopped by for ‘Physicians Day at the Capitol.’
‘Library Day on the Hill’ also took place, and I was able to visit with Great River Library Executive Director Karen Pundsack, among others.
I also visited with folks from the Minnesota Beverage Association.
Thanks for stopping by!
KEEP IN TOUCH
As always, I'm continuing to support constituent needs. Feel free to contact me anytime at rep.tim.odriscoll@house.mn.gov. or by phone at 651-296-7808.
Have a good weekend,
Tim