Politics & Government

Sen. Dan Hall: Budget Forecast is Great News for Minnesota

Hall: "The state of Minnesota will start Fiscal Years 2014-2015 with a projected deficit of $627 million. This is a drastically improved situation from the one the Republican Majority inherited during the Session of 2011."

The following is a column from Sen. Dan Hall, D-District 56. 

The Budget 

This week Minnesota Management and Budget released an updated forecast for Fiscal Years 2013, 2014 and 2015. The update contains excellent news. At the end of Fiscal Year 2013, the state is projected to have a positive balance of $295 million. Statute dictates that $290 million of the surplus will be used to re-pay the K-12 school aid shift. The repayment starts March 15th -two years in advance of the Governor’s proposal. 

Find out what's happening in Lakevillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The state of Minnesota will start Fiscal Years 2014-2015 with a projected deficit of $627 million. This is a drastically improved situation from the one the Republican Majority inherited during the Session of 2011. At that time, we faced depleted budget reserves, a 70/30 K-12 shift, and a $5 billion deficit. Through an improved economy, fiscal responsibility, and government reform, we were able to leave the Democratic Majority full budget reserves, an 82/18 K-12 shift (90/10 is normal), and a $627 million deficit. 

This proves that fiscal responsibility does work and government can live within its means. It’s incomprehensible that Governor Dayton wants to raise an additional $3 billion in taxes to address a $627 million deficit. Minnesotans should not have to face increased taxes that will negatively impact us all when it’s not necessary. 

Find out what's happening in Lakevillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Lakeville