Dear Neighbors,
The 2016 legislative session officially began on Tuesday as lawmakers returned to St. Paul for what’s sure to be full session as the legislature will only be meeting for 10 weeks due to ongoing renovations at the capitol.
Just last month, we learned that the state’s projected budget surplus currently sits at $900 million. This is a $300 million decrease from original projections in November. Officials say that most of the surplus decline is due to a weaker federal economic outlook and lower consumer spending.
This surplus will be a major factor in determining what is accomplished this session and I urge my colleagues to be cautious when thinking about how we should use the surplus.
That’s why, instead of creating new government programs to spend these funds, I support bringing much needed tax relief to Minnesotans this session.
In addition to tax relief, I am also hopeful that we will be able to pass a comprehensive transportation bill that addresses our aging roads and bridges—without increasing the gas tax.
If you have any questions, concerns, or comments regarding this year’s session, please do not hesitate to contact me. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-9918 and via email at rep.steve.green@house.mn.
Thank you and have a great weekend,
Steve