Dear Neighbors,
We are quickly approaching the legislative session adjournment deadline of May 22. Governor Dayton has been engaged in budget talks working on a compromise with legislative leaders, only for them to push their budget bills through the legislative process for certain veto. Here is an update from the Capitol:
BUDGET NEGOTIATIONS
The House and Senate Republican majorities are still far apart from Governor Dayton in their budget offers. With only 10 days to go before adjournment, more compromise is needed to invest in the things that Minnesotans value.
Governor Dayton’s proposal invests in education on all levels and builds a better Minnesota through efficiency and accountability. The Republican budget leaves most of us behind by choosing massive tax cuts for the wealthy and well-connected and cuts to things we value. With a $1.65 billion budget surplus, deep cuts are outrageous.
Republicans are choosing to cut education, including pre-K, and underfund our schools and higher education, causing larger class sizes, cuts to electives and after school activities, and higher tuition. The Republican budget slashes transit statewide, making it difficult for those dependent on public transportation to get to their jobs and medical appointments. The Republican budget makes deep cuts to our most vulnerable residents, hurting those who need help the most. The Republican budget radically underfunds transportation – which has been starved for years – and continues to fall behind by millions every year as our roads and bridges fail. The Republican budget underfunds the bonding bill (building and infrastructure bill) – at a time when interest rates are low. At a time of surplus, it’s essential that we invest in the things that have made Minnesota’s economy strong.
I’ll continue to be engaged with our legislative leaders and Governor Dayton as we work for a compromise that prioritizes the things Minnesota values in order to build a better future for everyone.
SOLAR ENERGY IS GROWING IN MINNESOTA
Minnesota’s solar industry is enjoying dramatic growth, adding nearly as much new solar capacity in just the first three months of 2017 as in all of 2016. According to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, state and federal clean energy policies have helped spur the solar market growth by promoting technical advances, driving down costs, and increasing consumer and business demand.
Solar capacity is expected to continue to increase. Residential and commercial projects are popping up across the state. If you would like to learn more about how you can tap into Minnesota’s solar energy success, click here. Also, read more about how the sun is shining on Minnesota’s solar energy growth.
Minnesota’s solar energy reaps benefits across the state. I’ll continue to advocate for our thriving solar industry.
North High School Boys Basketball Team Visits the Capitol
Earlier this month, North High Boys Basketball team visited the Capitol, where they were recognized on the House Floor for their 2017 championship title. It’s always great to have students in our community recognized for their hard work in Saint Paul.
Please contact me with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Raymond Dehn
State Representative