On Monday, Feb. 27, Minnesota’s Department of Management and Budget released its February revenue forecast, which provides information and an outlook for Minnesota’s financial picture. The report shows the surplus holding steady at $17.5 billion, after an automatic increase of 1.5 Billion for inflation is factored in. 

In response, Senate Republicans released our own agenda for the $17.5 Billion dollar surplus in the "Give it Back" plan.

The astronomical surplus is a gross overcollection of money from taxpayers. Instead of the governor proposing a 25% increase in the state budget, we should be looking for efficiencies and ways to return the over-collected funds to the rightful owner: the taxpayer. Yet Democrats are looking for new ways to borrow more money to pay for their agenda. I will continue to push back against big government and fight for significant relief for every taxpayer in Minnesota. learn more of my thoughts on the issue, HERE.  

We have a major problem here in the State of Minnesota. Our children are falling behind, with half of Minnesota students unable to read proficiently at grade level. To address this education crisis, Legislative Republicans recently announced "Reading RESET" plan.

This should not be a partisan issue. We need to support common sense initiatives to tailor our children's learning experience and unleash their full potential. The proposal includes three types of funding aimed at improving literacy in schools.

1. Firstly, schools that wish to replace their current ineffective literacy materials with proven Science of Reading curriculum, instructional materials, and books will receive funding.
2. Secondly, funding will be allocated to provide training and professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their knowledge and expertise in the Science of Reading.
3. Lastly, funding will be available for tutoring services to assist students who are struggling with reading and have fallen behind.

My parents met in high school in a small class of just 18 students. To graduate, they both had to learn and be proficient in Latin. Yet in the present day, many students are allowed to progress in their education while not meeting their grade level requirements; a trend of lowering expectations has emerged, which hinders critical thinking and intellectual growth. The lack of emphasis on encouraging and teaching critical thinking is detrimental to society's progress. As we continue to dumb down our educational system, we are hindering the potential of our future generations to contribute meaningfully to society.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me for help with any state issue or legislative initiative: [email protected] or at (651) 296-3219.

Senator Calvin Bahr

Minnesota Senate, District 31

Choose Freedom,