Dear Neighbors,
We had a big week at the Capitol — we have been unveiling our budget bills after releasing the framework of the Minnesota Values Budget, and Governor Walz had his first State of the State address. Here’s a quick update.
Governor Walz’s First State of the State
Greeting Governor Walz before his State of the State address
Governor Walz delivered his first State of the State address on Wednesday, April 3rd. Instead of a traditional scripted speech, Governor Walz spoke off the cuff, sharing the stories of Minnesotans.
The stories told by Governor Walz were like so many we have heard from Minnesotans across the state: we want good schools, affordable health care, and economic security. We care about our neighbors, and we want to see one another succeed. As session continues, I’m optimistic we can find solutions and pass a budget that will ensure that Minnesota is a state where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
You can watch the governor’s full speech here.
Minnesota Values Budget Bills Released
Last week, we began releasing details of our omnibus budget bills. Over the next week, omnibus bills will continue moving through the committee process before they come to the House floor later this month.
Transportation
Introducing our transportation proposal
Minnesotans expect our transportation system to be safe, modern, and efficient. But over the years, underfunding has left roads and bridges in terrible condition, and transit under-developed.
The American Society of Civil Engineers rated Minnesota’s roads as “D+” on their most recent infrastructure report card. Bridges received a “C” and transit was awarded a “C-.” Parents wouldn’t be happy with those grades from their children, and Minnesotans shouldn’t be happy with these grades on our infrastructure. Minnesota is not a C or D state.
Our budget makes significant, honest investments to address the safety risks posed by our aging infrastructure. Our budget includes a 20 cent increase in the gas tax, phased in over four years. Revenue from the gas tax is constitutionally dedicated to roads and bridges. The budget also funds needed improvements to our transit system through a half cent sales tax increase in the metro area.
Minnesotans have had enough of our crumbling infrastructure. It’s time for us to take real action.
Health & Human Services
All Minnesotans deserve access to high-quality affordable health care. Our budget works to ensure every Minnesotan can afford their health insurance premiums and actually get the care they need when they need it.
Instead of giveaways to insurance companies, we’ll implement health insurance discounts that go directly to consumers and a pathway to a public health care option. We’re going to secure the Health Care Access Fund, and protect health care for more than a million Minnesotans. We’re going to protect women’s access to health care and ensure that a woman’s health decisions stay between her and her doctor. And we’re going to work to reduce prescription drug costs because Minnesotans shouldn’t lose their lives because they can’t afford their life-saving medication.
Higher Education
Standing with students and introducing our Higher Education Budget
All Minnesotans deserve access to the education and job training they need to get jobs with wages and benefits that will support their families. Our Minnesota Values Budget would freeze tuition at all of our public colleges and universities. Too many students face the prospect of taking on student loan debt to pursue a college education. College should be more affordable and our tuition freeze would help.
Coon Rapids Arbor Day Tree Sale
Celebrate Arbor Day with new, beautiful trees for your yard! Coon Rapids has a wide variety of trees available for purchase as part of their 2019 Tree Sale. Trees must be pre-ordered with the City Forester by Friday, April 26. Call 763-767-6455 or email tschibilla@coonrapidsmn.gov to place your order.
You can learn more here.
As always, please contact me anytime with your input. I appreciate hearing from you! You can reach me at 651-296-4280 or at rep.melissa.hortman@house.mn. You can also keep up with what’s happening at the Capitol by liking my legislative Facebook page. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Melissa Hortman