Legislative Update
Friends,
It was a wild finish to our session and sadly a partisan play that has damaged the trust of Minnesotans in the hope of bipartisanship to solve our problems and engage the future together as ‘One Minnesota.’ The session's finale back on May 20th was marked by the unprecedented passage of a 1,432-page omnibus – “Omni-bomb” or ‘Grand Theft Omnibus’ – bill by the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) majority. The bill was introduced with only one hour remaining, and the bill text was not available via print or online, raising concerns about transparency. No debate was allowed on the bill, and the Speaker refused to recognize any member of the minority to speak. In doing so, she effectively silenced the voices of 2.7 million Minnesotans. Worse, with the bill not being available to read, members of the majority passed major legislation without knowing what its effects could be on the people of Minnesota.
Now it is June 7th and we are still learning what was in the Omnibomb Bill HF 5247. With its extensive range of provisions and substantial financial commitments, it raises significant concerns regarding its fiscal responsibility and policy direction. The transportation section, for instance, not only overspends its budget but also diverts funds to initiatives like greenhouse gas mitigation and tree planting, which, while environmentally beneficial, stray from the essential task of improving infrastructure. Furthermore, the implementation of a pilot program for automated red light and speed camera enforcement poses serious privacy issues and sets a dangerous precedent for increased surveillance.
In the housing sector, the authorization of $50 million in Housing Infrastructure Bonds and raising the bonding cap from $5 billion to $9 billion reflect a willingness to incur considerable debt. This approach, particularly the bailout for Minneapolis' 2040 plan, suggests a preference for expansive spending over targeted, fiscally prudent solutions. The allocation of $8.109 million for various housing programs and studies, although aimed at addressing housing needs, further exemplifies the bill's inclination toward unchecked expenditure.
Labor provisions within the bill introduce additional regulatory burdens, including new mandates on employers that could stifle economic growth and job creation. The inclusion of controversial measures, such as those related to workforce safety and employee benefits, complicates the already challenging business environment. Additionally, the bill's approach to clean energy and climate initiatives, despite being well-intentioned, risks diverting attention and resources from more immediate economic concerns.
Overall, HF 5247, in its attempt to address multiple policy areas, ends up presenting a patchwork of spending and regulatory measures that lack a coherent, fiscally responsible strategy. This mega-omnibus approach not only burdens taxpayers with increased debt but also sets a precedent for expansive government intervention, raising fundamental questions about the direction and priorities of state policy.
Memorial Day
Last week I was honored to give the Key Note address at the Woodbury Memorial Day Ceremony. I was impressed with the organizers great efforts to be inclusive with a number of Color Guards, reenactors, and Veterans Service Organizations all paying tribute to our Fallen. Despite the inclement weather there was a great throng of Woodburians and neighboring communities expressing their pride and thanks. This was a time in which we came together as a community in solemn thanks.
May God Bless our land!
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