2 weeks Ago By Sen. Mark Johnson
Let me start by wishing you Happy Easter! I hope you can enjoy time and a good meal with your family and friends. Easter is a time of promise, renewal and hope, something I think we could all use a little more of in our lives. This week the Legislature is on legislative Easter/Passover break, but we are quickly back to work on April 22.
ADVERTISEMENT I want to address the critical challenges facing our state and outline the Senate Republicans' commitment to our "Minnesotans First" agenda. The fiscal reality we face is stark. Despite a previous $18 billion surplus, we now confront a Democrat-designed $6 billion deficit due to unsustainable spending practices.
This situation demands immediate, responsible action. Our "Minnesotans First" plan is not just a slogan — it's a promise. We're dedicated to reducing unnecessary spending, preventing tax hikes, easing burdens on small businesses and freeing our schools from excessive mandates.
This approach isn't about partisan politics; it's about securing Minnesota's future for all of its residents. One issue that exemplifies the need for our agenda is the proposed cuts to nursing home funding, particularly in rural areas. Gov.
Tim Walz's budget would slash $26 million from nursing homes in Senate District 1 alone. This is unacceptable. Our seniors, who built the Minnesota we cherish, deserve better.
They need our support, not budget cuts that threaten their care and dignity. Moreover, these cuts jeopardize jobs in our rural communities, where nursing homes are often major employers. The "Minnesotans First" plan offers a better way forward.
We're committed to: ADVERTISEMENT 1. Finding efficiencies without compromising essential services. 2.
Combating fraud and eliminating waste. 3. Ensuring state benefits go to legal Minnesota residents.
4. Reducing burdensome regulations to stimulate economic growth. These measures will allow us to protect vital services, including our nursing homes, without resorting to harmful cuts or tax increases.
As your senator, I pledge to fight tirelessly for these principles. The challenges ahead are significant, but I believe in the resilience and ingenuity of Minnesotans. Together, we can create a budget that truly puts Minnesotans first.
I urge you to support our "Minnesotans First" agenda. Let your voice be heard. Share your concerns and ideas with me.
Only by working together can we ensure a prosperous, secure future for all Minnesotans. ADVERTISEMENT Thank you for your trust and support. Sen.
Mark Johnson, a Republican from East Grand Forks, represents District 1 in the Minnesota Legislature. He also serves as Senate minority leader..
