Legislators from around the state reconvened in St. Paul today for the start of the 2020 legislative session. The Senate Republican majority’s agenda for the abbreviated session, which is scheduled to end on May 18, is expected to include a tax cut bill as well as proposals for an infrastructure-focused bonding bill, for reducing prescription drug costs, for addressing rising incidents violent attacks in the Twin Cities, and for managing the state’s projected $1.33 billion budget surplus.

“Our plan for the surplus is simple: we are going to give it back to taxpayers,” said Sen. Roger Chamberlain, chairman of the Senate Tax Committee. “I have met so many people who have told me what a little extra money in their pocket would mean. For some, it will be easier to afford childcare, groceries, or medical bills. For others, it means being able to go to a Wild game, a concert, or a long-overdue date night. It’s about security and flexibility for Minnesotans and their families; it’s about giving people the freedom to create their own opportunities and follow their own dreams.”

Last month, Senate Republicans unveiled their Vision 2020 Agenda, a comprehensive plan for the upcoming legislative session. The agenda includes ideas for health care, transportation, education, energy, job growth, violence prevention, and more.