This past Monday, the 2023 legislative session ended with a record $72 billion budget, the entire $17.5 billion surplus spent, and another $9.8 billion in taxes and fees raised by the legislative majority.
Some of the notable taxes and fees raised were a new tax on employees to pay for a massive new bureaucracy to implement a paid family leave program, higher car tab fees, and an increased gas tax that will rise automatically every year with inflation. The tax bill alone increased taxes by $2.2 billion and fails to fully repeal the tax on social security income.
I was glad to see that the environment and energy bill dropped their proposed fee increases for fishing licenses and state parks, however they unfortunately still increased boat registration fees.
One of the few good things to come out of this session is that Republicans fought and won increased funding for our nursing homes. After proposing a budget that included less than 1% of its spending going to save our troubled nursing homes, Republicans stepped in to strike a late-session deal securing $300 million for nursing homes. I am hopeful that this funding will put the state's nursing homes on more solid ground and ensure they can care for our seniors the way they deserve.
Memorial Day
This Monday is Memorial Day. I hope in the midst of the long weekend, celebrations, picnics and events, we can all take a moment to remember those who gave everything to ensure that our country remains free.
I'll be in Lester Prairie on Monday for the Memorial Day program, and I hope to see many of you there.
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