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State Representative
Rich Stanek

543 State Office Building, 100 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, MN 55155 (651) 296- 5502

For Immediate ReleaseFor more information contact:
February 8, 2000Jon Peterson (651-296-5989)
NEWS RELEASE
REP. STANEK PREVIEWS 2000 SESSION

(ST. PAUL) At noon on Tuesday, February 1, Speaker of the House Steve Sviggum called to order the 2000 session of the Minnesota Legislature, which many believe could be a session that will produce heated debate on issues important to all Minnesotans.

Among the issues topping the list of all lawmakers is passing more tax cuts for working families, including more income tax cuts and another rebate check, said State Representative Rich Stanek (R-Maple Grove). Other issues at the forefront include Gov. Ventura's proposal for a unicameral legislature, funding road and bridge expansions and upgrades and protecting Minnesota families from repeat criminals.

Shortly before the beginning of the 2000 Session, House Republicans unveiled their "Lunch Bucket Agenda," an ambitious set of goals aimed at helping average Minnesota families who clip coupons, work hard and pay taxes. Among the provisions of the Lunch Bucket Agenda are the following:

þ More tax relief. Another sales tax rebate check, which should average about $250 per person, plus more across-the-board income tax cuts, weighted toward middle-class taxpayers.

þ Immediate funding for roads and bridges. A one-time, $400 million infusion of money to help relieve traffic bottlenecks in the metro area, and to increase economic activity and safety statewide.

þ Protecting families from career criminals. A set of proposals under the title "Katie's Law," (named for kidnaping victim Katie Poirier) which will address the problems of repeat criminals who prey on families. At the heart of Katie's Law is funding a statewide integrated computer network that will allow law enforcement agencies around the state to share information about violent criminal.

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Rep. Stanek

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"I am proud of the goals we have set as we head into a new session," said Rep. Stanek. "This is a smart, mainstream agenda that strikes a balance between cutting taxes and funding a few immediate, pressing needs."

To keep up with the daily progress at the State Capitol, Rep. Stanek encourages residents of Plymouth and Maple Grove to subscribe to Session Weekly, a free news magazine produced by the nonpartisan House Public Information Office. To get on their mailing list, write to the House Public Information Office, 175 State Office Building, 100 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, MN 55155, or call them at (651) 296-2146.

Rich Stanek represents House District 33B in the Minnesota House of Representatives. A 16-year police veteran, Rep. Stanek also serves as chairman of the House Crime Prevention Committee. To contact him with questions or concerns, write him at 543 State Office Building, 100 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, MN 55155, or call 651-296-5502.

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