SAINT PAUL, Minn. – This afternoon, the Minnesota House of Representatives is expected to pass a new transportation budget that makes honest and responsible investments to fix our state’s roads, bridges, and transit. The American Society of Civil Engineers rated Minnesota’s roads as “D+” on their most recent infrastructure report card. Bridges received a “C” and transit was awarded a “C-.” A fact sheet is available for download here.
“Everyone in our state deserves a reliable and modern transportation system, and it’s responsible to fund these overdue improvements honestly with dedicated funding. Our DFL transportation budget does this,” said Rep. Jen Schultz (DFL – Duluth). “We’ve have been waiting far too long for infrastructure improvements, both in Duluth and across the state. Today’s action is a giant step forward to ensure safety, prevent congestion, and strengthen our communities.”
The House DFL Majority’s transportation budget reverses destructive Republican budgeting that shifts more than $400 million in general fund dollars meant for schools, health care for seniors and people with disabilities, and other social safety net programs that Minnesotans depend on to live dignified lives. Instead, it raises those revenues honestly. In addition to a gas tax increase phased in over four years, the budget raises approximately $461 million in new revenue through changes in tab fees in Fiscal Years 2020-2021 and more than $650 million in Fiscal Years 2022-23. Nearly half of all Minnesota vehicles would qualify for lower tab fees. The budget also brings the motor vehicle sales tax in line with all other sales taxes (from 6.5% to 6.875%).
The House DFL Majority’s transportation budget prioritizes better access to transit for Minnesotans who need to get to work, school, and other public places.
After the Minnesota House and Senate approve their respective transportation budgets, lawmakers from each chamber form a conference committee to reach agreement on a final version.