(ST. PAUL, MN) –  Minnesota Senate Republicans reacted to the passing of the $1.9 trillion “American Recovery Plan” in the US House today. The bill provides a total of $4.8 billion to the state and local governments of Minnesota for various uses. The bill designates about $2.1 billion to local entities, and about $2.6 available to the State.  

“We started this session committed to balancing the budget without raising taxes. With every week that passes, it’s easier to stick to that commitment,” said Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka (R-East Gull Lake). “Minnesota already has a $1.6 billion budget surplus, the stimulus sends $4.8 billion to the state, and revenue collection continues to exceed expectations. There is absolutely no reason to raise taxes on Minnesotans and the Governor should drop all his proposed increases. In fact, the Senate is going to vote on tax relief with conformity to the Paycheck Protections Program loans to businesses tomorrow. We know an economic recovery from COVID-19 is a Minnesota priority that can be done without tax increases.”