Dear neighbors,
In the House, my colleagues and I began announcing the major components of the state budget this week. I’m particularly excited by the new transportation and jobs budgets!
Fixing Our Roads, Bridges, and Transit
All Minnesotans know that the start of spring is also the beginning of pothole season. Our infrastructure is crumbling, and the average motorist pays $350 for vehicle repairs every year due to poor road conditions. On their most recent infrastructure report card, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave Minnesota’s roads a “D+.” Bridges received a “C,” and transit was awarded a “C-.”
Our transportation budget makes honest investments to fix our roads, bridges, and transit. It would address public safety hazards, improve access to transit, and ensure our transportation system serves every Minnesotan. A fact sheet with more information is available here. You can also watch the announcement here.
Support for Working Minnesotans
As a member of the Jobs and Economic Development Finance Division, I’m proud of the work we’re doing to help people move out of poverty and provide for their families. Our jobs budget includes measures that will help working Minnesotans, including paid family and medical leave and earned sick and safe time. These policies will give workers the time they need to take care of themselves and their loved ones, whether that’s a new baby or aging parents.
The budget also strengthens protections against wage theft and supports job training that would prepare people for the jobs that industry is seeking. My bill to expand job training opportunities for special education students (HF 2446) is included as well.
State of the State Address
Governor Tim Walz gave his first State of the State address last Wednesday. The governor shared the stories of Minnesotans and talked about the hopes, dreams, and challenges of our neighbors and communities across the state. I appreciated the governor’s focus on the people of Minnesota and his call for cooperation.
A video of Governor Walz’s speech is available here.
Thank you for your interest in the work we do at the Capitol. If you have questions or feedback, please feel free to contact me at rep.erin.koegel@house.mn or 651-296-5369.
Sincerely,
Erin Koegel
State Representative