Rep. Michael V. Nelson (40A) – Legislative Update
Dear Neighbors,
We now have about four weeks left in the 2018 legislative session. It’s been a busy time at the Capitol and today is the third and final committee deadline, where most finance bills must be passed out of their respective committees. We have many late nights ahead of us. Still unresolved are the taxes bill, bonding bill, House action on pensions, and any movement on opioid abuse and elder neglect.
Fighting for Clean Water Protections
On Monday, the Minnesota House passed a Republican-authored bill 69 to 57 to prohibit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) from implementing proposed rules for nitrogen fertilizer use. These rules, authorized under 1989’s Groundwater Protection Act, would protect Minnesota’s water resources by minimizing nitrate pollution. Far too many Minnesotans are facing unsafe drinking water, so it’s of vital importance that in areas highly susceptible to pollution there are a few ground rules for how and when to apply fertilizers.
Thankfully, Governor Mark Dayton delivered a letter indicating he’d veto the bill.
Governor Dayton Urges Action
Last week, Governor Dayton sent a letter to legislative leaders outlining the need for a smooth process to end the session. He asked that items with bipartisan agreement–protecting vulnerable seniors, addressing the opioid crisis, making schools safer, and shoring up state pensions–be passed now. He also stressed that he would not accept shifts, gimmicks, cuts, or false financial assumptions that would undo the hard work done by DFLers to return fiscal stability to Minnesota after years of Pawlenty’s deficits.
Minnesotans expect action to keep schools safe, stop the opioid crisis, keep seniors safe, and make sure retirement is secure for pensioners, but Speaker Daudt and Republicans need to stop playing political games. There is no excuse for holding these important bills back simply so they can be used as a bargaining chip at the end of session. Minnesotans deserve swift action on these issues, not delays.
Republican Budget Shortchanges Education
Days before finance committee deadlines, legislative majorities finally announced their supplemental budget targets. Instead of investing in the things Minnesotans value, like expanding quality early childhood education and making college more affordable, they’ve indicated plans to continue prioritizing tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy.
This is in stark contrast to Governor Dayton’s supplemental budget proposal, which rolls back tax giveaways for corporations and the wealthy to fund tax cuts for Minnesota families and important investments in areas such as education. I’ve heard from you and will continue to ensure the things our community values are a priority at the Capitol.
Minnesota Values Project
In the months leading up to this year’s legislative session, my House DFL colleagues and I engaged in a dialogue with Minnesotans about our shared values and future. We visited communities all over the state, and listened to people from all walks of life. Based on those sessions, we’ve put forward the Minnesota Values Project — our goals, principles, and commitments to the people of Minnesota. Our shared values bring us together and can serve as a guide for how we move forward and how we make Minnesota work better for all of us. Learn more and add your voice at www.minnesotavaluesproject.com.
As always, contact me with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Michael Nelson
State Representative