Balanced budget invests in rural broadband, middle-income tax cuts, stops gas tax

Senator Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake) released the following statement after legislative leaders and the governor reached a bipartisan, balanced two-year budget compromise for the State of Minnesota:

“By working together, the legislature and governor were able to reach a balanced, two-year budget compromise. While imperfect, this budget invests $40 million in rural broadband expansion, delivers middle-income families their first tax rate cut in nearly two decades, and stops the onerous 20 cent per gallon gas tax and vehicle tab fee increases. Further, we increase the E-12 education per-pupil funding formula by two percent each year of the two-year budget, positively impacting Minnesota students across the state. While I will continue to work with my legislative colleagues over the next few days on the final details, this budget puts Minnesota families first.”