 Dear Neighbors,
From my family to yours, Happy Easter! I hope you?re able to take time to reflect on the meaning of Easter and to spend time with loved ones this weekend.
Budget Picture Coming Together
Starting next week, House Democrats will begin bringing their omnibus budget bills to the House Floor for votes. Sadly, Gov. Walz and Democrats are planning to spend the entirety of the state?s $17.5 billion budget surplus and are looking to increase the state budget by 40% all the way to $72 billion.
Additionally, they are proposing billions in tax increases as well.
While I will have more details on these bills as they come before us for votes, I am nevertheless extremely concerned about this unprecedented increase in government spending and tax increases while the state?s budget surplus sits at $17.5 billion.
Gun Control Legislation included in Public Safety Bill
Democrats have included two controversial gun control bills in their public safety omnibus bill.
It is disappointing that Democrats are burying these controversial gun control bills deep inside a 312-page omnibus package.
If they want to pass legislation that strips away the constitutional rights of law-abiding Minnesotans, then they should have the courage to debate these issues on their own merits as standalone bills. Instead of targeting lawful gun owners, I call on my friends on the other side of the aisle to join us in focusing our efforts on solutions that address root causes impacting gun violence like improving access to mental health care, holding repeat violent offenders accountable, and providing resources to law enforcement and the courts to prosecute criminals.
Walz?s $17,000 a Month Rental
Last week we learned that Gov. Walz and family will be relocating to a $17,000-a-month lakeside mansion later this year during renovations at the St. Paul governor?s residence.
A simple Google search revealed a comparable property for significantly less in monthly rental costs. The?home is on Lake Phalen and would be $4,500?instead of $17,000 per-month.
As Minnesotans struggle with soaring interest rates impacting the housing market, high inflation, and much more, it is incredibly tone-deaf for Gov. Walz to make taxpayers fork over $17,000 a month in rent payments for a lake side mansion for him and his family.
Staying in Touch
Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, concerns, or ideas on ways to improve state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4237 or via email [email protected]?
Have a good day,
Paul
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