Senator Dahms, Senate Republicans propose plan to cut state government waste

On Monday, March 17, Senate Republicans held a press conference to highlight at least $600 million in wasteful or unnecessary spending identified in the state budget. Republican leaders emphasized that these funds could be better used to support essential services and reduce the financial burden on Minnesota families.

“With our state facing a $6 billion deficit, it is crucial to rein in excessive government spending and find cost-saving opportunities,” Senator Gary Dahms (R – Redwood Falls) said. “Senate Republicans have uncovered hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars wasted on unnecessary programs. It is time to cut the waste and invest in what truly matters to Minnesotans.”

A significant portion of the proposed savings comes from transportation spending, particularly on commuter and light rail projects. Nearly $250 million could be saved by eliminating subsidies for underperforming rail lines and reconsidering costly projects such as the Northern Lights Express, Southwest Light Rail, and unworkable redesigns of Interstate 94 between Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Another major area of concern is state spending on benefits for undocumented non-citizens, estimated to cost up to $378 million. These expenses include free health care, college tuition assistance, and certain tax credits.

In addition to these budget reductions, Senate Republicans are advocating for a series of reforms aimed at improving government accountability and preventing future wasteful spending including:

  • Financial disclosure by legislators – Requires legislators to disclose any financial ties to entities seeking state funding; prohibits legislative staff from being paid by organizations receiving state funding.
  • Restrictions on grants to nonprofits with highly compensated officers – Prevents state grants from going to nonprofits where officers or employees receive excessive compensation.
  • Vacant state office space report – Mandates regular reporting on unused state office space to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Sunsets for commissions and working groups – Requires commissions and working groups to sunset after two years unless reauthorized by the legislature.

“Reducing wasteful spending will allow the state to avoid drastic cuts to essential services and restore integrity to the budget,” concluded Senator Dahms.