This week Governor Walz released his budget proposal. The proposal increases the budget by over 25% and includes a number of permanent tax increases, the creation of new government agencies, and the financing of divisive policies such as Driver’s Licenses for All. Notably missing is the repeal of the Social Security Tax.

Senator Nathan Wesenberg (R-Little Falls) released the following statement in response:

“This week’s budget proposal does nothing to help Minnesotans that are struggling everyday with inflation and rising costs. The proposed budget is short-sighted, blows through the surplus, and raises taxes to fund radical Democrat projects. If we can’t provide tax relief to Minnesotans when we have a historic surplus, then when can we? We should be returning money back to taxpayers, not taxing them even more.”

Tax increases included in the bill:  

• $1.2 billion in taxes to finance a Paid Family and Medical Leave Fund – to be paid by every employee and employer
• $349 million transportation tax 
• Car registration tab fees – increase of fees in the first year from 100% to 160%