In February, my Senate Republican colleagues and I unveiled our “Advancing Minnesota” agenda, outlining a bold, comprehensive vision of growth and opportunity, and demonstrating a commitment to Minnesotans in all corners of the state. People are expecting us to make their government work, and rightly so – that’s what we were sent here to do.

I believe we are making good on that commitment.

In January, Senate Republicans led the way on relief to those whose individual health insurance plan had skyrocketed in cost due to Obamacare. We reached across the partisan aisle found a compromise that is providing $300 million in short-term relief to those who need it.

Earlier this month, we continued down the road toward substantive health insurance market reform by passing the Minnesota Premium Security Plan, which implements a reinsurance program that will stabilize the market and lower 2018 premiums by an estimated 21-23%.

And we keep moving forward.

Over the past two weeks, Senate Republicans have introduced a series of budget proposals that reflect the priorities of our Advancing Minnesota agenda. Through responsible, economic investments, our proposals are designed to keep Minnesota an excellent place to live, work, and raise a family.

Our pro-growth tax package will bring over $900 million in relief to Minnesota families, students, seniors, farmers, and small business owners — many who have not seen a substantive tax cut in over a decade. In total, 81% of Minnesota taxpayers — including 2.3 million households and 350,000 seniors — will see relief.

Our transportation proposal invests $3.6 billion in 8,800 miles of road and 200 bridges over the next ten years, without raising taxes, and with an emphasis on Greater Minnesota.

Our jobs plan emphasizes proven partnerships that have been proven to create jobs, while also committing millions to needed programs such as rural broadband access and youth skills training.

Our higher education proposal prioritizes students, workforce development, and research through an investment of $3.1 billion — $100 million more compared to the previous budget — and increases aid to rural campuses, as well as the Minnesota State Grant Program.

And the list goes on.

Part of what makes Minnesota so great is its diversity. We boast 5.5 million people (and, of course, 10,000 lakes!) sprawling urban, suburban, and rural landscapes. I will continue to be a fierce advocate for policy that works to better the lives of all Minnesotans.

Over the next several weeks, expect to hear more about the work we’re doing to Advance Minnesota.