Statement from Governor Walz on the February 2020 Budget Forecast

Statement

Governor Tim Walz today issued the following statement in response to the February 2020 budget forecast:

"This budget forecast is good economic news for Minnesota. We must build upon the smart decisions that got us to this strong position."

"Last session, we invested in our children's education. We protected Minnesotans' access to affordable health care. And for the first time in 20 years, we gave 1.36 million middle class Minnesotans a tax rate cut. We have been disciplined, kept our eye on the long-term, and invested in the things that make our state grow."

"This session, we must come together as One Minnesota and build upon that good work. We must exercise caution and protect our fiscal stability. We must pay back the budget reserves. We must listen to what our communities are telling us. And they are urgently telling us that they need our support to increase access to safe drinking water and affordable housing, fix local roads and bridges, improve safety infrastructure, and protect their lakes and rivers."

"That is why I have unveiled a $2 billion bonding plan that will take care of what we have, prepare for the future, and keep our economy strong across the state.

"Whether it's upgrading a deteriorating sewer in Minneapolis or rebuilding a historic town hall that burned down in Ellsworth, these are projects that improve the quality of life of citizens across the state."

"We also know that our businesses are struggling to find workers. Investing more than $480 million in our higher education institutions, our bonding proposal will provide our students with a world-class education and develop the talent needed to grow Minnesota's economy.

"We must pass this robust plan. There's no reason not to do this now."

"This session, we must also tackle the pressing issues facing us today--like replenishing the disaster relief account, increasing access to affordable insulin, improving the safety of our farmers, and ensuring Minnesota is prepared to respond to the Coronavirus."

"And we must think toward the future by investing in Minnesota's children. There are actions we need to take to make this state the best in the country for our kids, including ensuring every child in Minnesota receives a high-quality education, no matter who they are or where they live."

"I look forward to working together with the legislature this session to make this a reality."

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