Dear neighbor,
I’m pleased to announce that I will be serving as the Vice Chair of the House Greater Minnesota Economic & Workforce Development Policy Committee for the 2015 and 2016 legislative sessions.
Greater Minnesota turns out the best work force in the country. Unfortunately, many of the policies enacted over the past two-years have inhibited opportunities for rural small businesses to expand and create new jobs. I look forward to working toward creating a job-friendly environment for Greater Minnesota.
NOVEMBER FORECAST
Yesterday, the Office of Minnesota Office of Management and Budget (MMB) announced that state government will have $1.037 billion available for Fiscal Year 2016-17. While some may view this as good news and as an opportunity to spend even more of your hard-earned dollars, I see it a different way. Projected revenue is actually down for Fiscal Year 2016-17 from the end of the 2014 session. At the conclusion of session, it was projected the state would bring in $42.293 billion. Now, it is projected the state will bring in $41.880 billion – an approximately $400 million reduction.
This news shows future economic activity may not be as healthy as suggested by Governor Dayton and Democrats in the legislature. It is becoming clear that the tax increases imposed in 2013 and the wasteful spending enacted over the past two years have flat-lined Minnesota’s economic recovery. Yesterday’s news is a strong reminder that we should exercise caution when making tax and spending decisions that impact Minnesotans lives.
While my office will be moving to a different location in the State Office Building next year, I can still be reached at rep.steve.green@house.mn and by phone at (651) 296-9918. I will update you when I know where my office will be located.
Sincerely,
Steve