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Legislative News and Views - Rep. John Poston (R)

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Capitol Newsletter from Rep. John Poston

Friday, May 21, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

The 2021 legislative session ended on Monday afternoon with zero budget bills reaching the governor’s desk—marking the end of what is likely the least productive session in more than 40 years.

Because of this, the legislature will need to return for a special session sometime in June to finish its work.

The chief culprit behind the delay is Democrats' refusal to drop demands for tax hikes until the 11th hour of session. Additionally, they have continued to hold PPP/UI relief hostage with negotiations ongoing meaning that thousands of Minnesotans will still have to suffer due to their inaction.

As negotiations continue, we must work to end the Governor's emergency powers and make sure the legislature has oversight and control over every penny of federal COVID relief funds that are coming into the state. It's the job of the legislature—not the Governor—to appropriate money and the legislature should retain full control over federal dollars.

Thankfully, it appears that Democrats have dropped their demands for tax increases, but most understood that with a $4 billion budget surplus, tax increases were NEVER actually going to happen. 

Stay tuned for more updates on budget negotiations as I expect the legislature to be called back for a special session sometime in mid-June.

Staying in Touch

Please continue to reach out to me to share your questions, thoughts, or concerns. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4293 or via email at rep.john.poston@house.mn.

Have a great day,

John