Minnesota lawmakers begin debating how to use budget surplus
Minnesota lawmakers begin debating how to use budget surplus By Holly Bernstein | February 26, 2021 at 8:44 PM CST - Updated February 26 at 8:44 PM
ST. PAUL, Minn. (KEYC) â Minnesota economists say the stateâs budget outlook has swung from a $1.3 billion deficit to a $1.6 billion surplus.
According to the Minnesota Department of Management and Budget, the numbers are due to an improved US economic outlook, which has been bolstered by stimulus measures the federal government has taken since the state department issued its last forecast in November.
The agency cites a higher revenue forecast, lower projected state spending and an increased surplus for the current fiscal year, but they say the rising tide hasnât lifted all boats as unemployment continues to disproportionately impact lower-wage workers.
Walz proposes $518 million jobs, projects plan during budgeting year
Walz proposes $518 million jobs, projects plan during budgeting year By Holly Bernstein | February 22, 2021 at 10:20 PM CST - Updated February 22 at 11:07 PM
ST. PAUL, Minn. (KEYC) - Gov. Tim Walz released his proposal for a local jobs and projects plan, often called a bonding bill, on Monday, but this year is a budgeting year at the Minnesota State Capitol.
Broken down, his proposal includes $150 million for rebuilding neighborhoods hit by unrest after the death of George Floyd last May.
It also includes $43 million in security upgrades for the state Capitol complex, which has been ringed by fencing since last summer’s protests.
Rep. Jeremy Munson speaks out after House launches investigation on 6 GOP reps By Bernadette Heier | January 14, 2021 at 7:05 PM CST - Updated January 14 at 7:37 PM
ST. PAUL, Minn. (KEYC) Rep. Jeremy Munson (R-Lake Crystal) is pushing back after the Minnesota House investigates a Pro-Trump rally in St. Paul.
Six Republican lawmakers, including Munson, are under investigation after attending a “Storm the Capitol” rally, the same day rioters broke into the U.S. Capitol building in Washington.
Newly elected District 19A Rep. Susan Akland (R-St. Peter) also attended the rally.
Munson says the backlash legislators are receiving for attending the rally is “overblown” and that representatives should meet with citizens who come to the government seeking change.