Friends and neighbors,
Last session, Democrats spent all of the $19 billion surplus and raised your taxes by $10 billion. State government budgets ballooned to $72 billion, up 40% from the state’s last budget. Did your household income or budget increase by 40%?
Government will be expanding agencies and creating some new ones, which will add hundreds and hundreds of new positions. Which in turn will cost hardworking Minnesota families millions and millions of dollars.
Meanwhile, small local businesses wonder how they will make ends meet. They question whether it is worth all the extra time and energy to keep their doors open.
As I have talked to many farmers and businesses, they continue to be frustrated by politicians who think they know how to run a business better than they do. The cost of goods and services will have to go up to make ends meet for businesses, which will ultimately make all family budgets increase.
Not only do Democrats’ expensive mandates hit Minnesotans hard, but they also put our state’s financial future at severe risk.
Recently, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released its annual November budget forecast, which provides a picture of our state’s financial outlook. Amazingly, even with the Democrats’ massive government spending, the forecast is projecting a $2.4 short-term billion surplus in 2024. This is thanks to the hardworking Minnesota farmers, businesses and all the workers throughout our state.
However, Democrats’ lack of fiscal responsibility comes to light through the looming $2.3 billion deficit beginning in 2025. With so many families struggling to pay their bills and pinching pennies, it is sad to see government hypocrisy on budgeting. Government spending, and spending.
Government is increasing way too much, way too fast. I am calling on members across the aisle to be better stewards of the people’s money.
Senate Capital Investment Committee visits Senate District 23
In late November, the Senate Capital Investment Committee came to District 23 and made stops in six locations.
Wastewater projects continue to be in critical need of state assistance with financing, as the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) tightens regulations on wastewater guidelines. Many communities can’t afford to comply and need state funding to get the projects done, without breaking the banks of many small communities.
It was really disappointing that more of last year’s surplus didn’t go to core wastewater infrastructure projects throughout the state. Our bonding should really be used to come alongside to help communities. Community projects are great, but we need to focus state dollars on core infrastructure.
At the end of the day, bonding bills are meant for community needs–not a Christmas want list for pet projects. But unfortunately, this is what happened last year.
Yes, there were many good projects in there, but with the huge need throughout the state, much more needed to be included.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
As we approach Christmas, I am thankful for time with friends and family to celebrate the birth of Jesus! No matter how you choose to celebrate this season, I hope you and your loved ones enjoy your time together.
Wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas season and a Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Gene