ST. PAUL –Rep. Bob Vogel, R-Elko New Market, issued the following statement regarding the release of the state's new economic forecast on Friday, which calls for a $900 million surplus through June of 2017 – down $300 million from November.
"This slight dip does not surprise me," Vogel said. "With the strong dollar, manufacturing is really suffering. And, coupled with that, reports indicate a weaker national economic outlook and lower consumer spending, all of which contribute to the reduced state revenue projection. All this underscores the fact our economy remains fragile in the wake of the Great Recession and it is important to make prudent and disciplined decisions to protect the financial integrity of Minnesota and its taxpayers. The focus this legislative session still should be providing relief to families and businesses that have been overtaxed, along with improving our roads and bridges without raising the gas tax."
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