Friends and neighbors,
I have previously shared that our state is facing a projected $5.1 billion deficit by 2029. Yet, instead of responsibly addressing the problem, Governor Walz’s Human Services budget proposal simply shifts $460 million in costs to our counties. This is not a meaningful attempt to curb government spending. The governor is simply placing the burden onto the backs of you, the local taxpayers, while the state gets to claim to balance its books.
At a press conference this week, county commissioners warned that these cost shifts would have serious consequences. The county leaders emphasized how local governments would be left with no choice but to increase property taxes. The Association of Minnesota Counties is still assessing the full impact of the proposed budget changes. However, early reports from members suggest that the governor’s proposals could place a significant burden on local governments, with some counties predicting “9% levy increases.”
I find this extremely concerning because Minnesotans would have no say. Unlike school referendums, where voters can provide feedback on tax increases, these hikes would be imposed without input from the people who would be forced to pay them. Instead of placing the burden on our local communities, families, and businesses, we must prioritize real solutions that rein in spending.
In the last two sessions, Democrats spent the entire $19 billion surplus. At the same time, they grew government by approximately 40% and raised taxes and fees by $10 billion. Despite this massive spending, our state is still not taking care of our citizens, especially our most vulnerable.
Nursing homes are closing in Greater Minnesota, Emergency Medical Services providers are struggling, aging infrastructure demands urgent upgrades, families are struggling to afford life, and many schools are facing challenges in meeting their budgets. We need to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent where the most pressing needs lie. One way to do that is by addressing government waste, fraud, and abuse.
Under the Walz Administration, Minnesota has already lost over $500 million due to waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars. Instead of shifting costs, we should be cracking down on fraud and abuse, implementing stronger oversight, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly.
Senate Republicans have introduced an eight-bill plan to increase accountability and protect taxpayers. This includes strengthening penalties for state employees who fail to report fraud, improving whistleblower protections, and creating a centralized Office of Inspector General. These reforms are critical to ensuring that Minnesota’s budget is handled responsibly.
Another way to reduce government spending is by cutting state funding for non-citizens. In recent legislative sessions, Democrats have passed bills that prioritize state resources for non-citizens over Minnesota residents.
Another way to reduce government spending is by cutting state funding for non-citizens. In recent legislative sessions, Democrats have passed bills that prioritize state resources for non-citizens over Minnesota residents. This includes an estimated $110 million for MinnesotaCare health benefits for non-citizens, $158 million to allow those with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) to claim the working family credit and the homestead and property tax refunds—ITINs are used heavily, though not exclusively, by undocumented immigrants—and $86,399 for tuition assistance for non-citizens.
We don’t have the money to take care of our own. Why are we putting non-citizens ahead of our own neighbors, family, and friends? Why should we prioritize those who are not here legally?
Minnesotans deserve a budget that prioritizes fiscal responsibility without forcing local governments to raise taxes. The people of Minnesota should not be left paying the price for reckless government decisions. We need government to put Minnesotans first and ensure essential services remain funded without shifting financial burdens onto our local communities.
Sincerely,
Gene