This is the first opportunity I’ve had to share a column with you since Election Day, and I’d like to thank you once again for your continued support. It is an honor to represent your interests in the Minnesota House and I truly look forward to serving as your state representative for the next two years.

I’d also like to thank those of you who have reached out with well-wishes. As some of you may know, I underwent quintuple bypass surgery in mid-October and I’m pleased to report everything is healing as expected. The good news is I’ve been able to stay engaged through online meetings, which due to COVID-19, has basically become the new normal. I’ve been attending cardiac rehab locally at Regina Hospital and everything I’ve heard from the doctors suggests I’ll be ready for the start of the legislative session. Believe me, even with the challenges we’re facing, I’m looking forward to it.

Our top priority this session will be setting a budget for the next two year budget cycle, and on December 1 we received some positive news.

For the budget cycle that ends in June, Minnesota now projects a $641 million surplus. For the 2022-23 budget period that begins in July, state economists project our state to face a $1.273 billion deficit. Earlier projections showed our current budget cycle would see a $2.4 billion deficit, and the upcoming budget cycle would see a revenue shortfall of $4.7 billion.

Higher than expected sales tax collections and businesses investments brought more money into the state’s coffers, while spending decreases in certain areas of government contributed to the improved fiscal news. The 2022-23 deficit projection also does not take into account any potential federal aid, which could help offset any budget deficit, or the $2.4 billion in Minnesota’s budget reserves.

All of these factors tell me tax increases should not be part of the budget setting solution this spring. With some residents – particularly our small business owners and their employees – struggling to survive due to the pandemic, there is no need to inflict more financial pain on them. Our economy was in outstanding shape prior to the pandemic, and it’s now improved significantly since the start of the pandemic. I’m confident it will thrive again once a vaccine is distributed and life begins its return to normal.

A number of local business owners are among those who continue to face economic hardship. Recently Governor Walz issued more executive orders forcing restaurants, fitness centers, bowling alleys and movie theatres to close for in-person business until mid-December.

Since the pandemic began, I have been working closely with local business owners who have been negatively impacted by the governor’s executive orders. I continue to remain in close contact with these job providers because we need them to make it through this pandemic. They are critical to the success of our communities, and they need our help.

This is why House Republicans have released a series of proposals that are designed to help those business owners most in need. This includes $400 million in immediate grant assistance to businesses that will see a 35% or higher reduction in revenue due to the governor’s orders. It would also provide a sales tax holiday for impacted businesses, flexibility for establishments that sell alcohol, and it would also reopen our fitness centers and gyms.

It sounds like the other legislative caucuses are also working on plans to assist our businesses. This is a good thing, because we cannot afford to sit still. Too many businesses across this state closed for good after the governor forced them to shut down near the beginning of the pandemic. Now they’re facing another crisis, and they need state government to act fast. With a $641 million surplus for the remainder of this biennium – we have the resources to give them the help they need.

As always, I value your input. You can contact me anytime with your legislative questions or concerns. I can be reached by email at [email protected], or by phone at 651-296-3135.