Front Page - Legislative issues coming our way - Legislative issues coming our way

On Tuesday, Feb. 24, Sen. Linda Higgins (who represents the Camden area) and other Minnesota legislators host a public hearing to seek community members' input on the state budget proposal recently released by Gov. Tim Pawlenty. The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at the Minneapolis Park Board Headquarters, 2117 West River Rd. The meeting will serve as a forum for area residents to share their thoughts on the role and priorities of state government.

"Minnesota is currently facing the most difficult economic recession in decades," said Higgins. "Passing a balanced budget in the middle of this economic crisis will require us to reach across party lines, set smart priorities, and make many difficult decisions. To accomplish these goals, we need the input from working Minnesotans, business owners, local government leaders, retirees and everyone in-between."

Higgins noted that several areas of the governor's budget would have a significant impact on Minneapolis residents. This includes cuts to health and human services funding, which would result in the elimination of health care coverage for more than 100,000 Minnesotans, as well as a 25 percent reduction in funding for affordable and transitional-housing programs. In addition, the governor's budget would slash state aid to Minneapolis, which could trigger higher property taxes and reduced services in the city.

"I understand that funding cuts will have to be part of our budget-setting strategy, but I'm concerned that too many of the governor's cuts seem to target the people most at-risk during our economic recession," said Sen. Higgins. "Cutting affordable housing during our current mortgage crisis is taking our state in the wrong direction, and eliminating health care coverage while layoffs and unemployment are on the rise will jeopardize the safety of working families. It is critical that we hear directly from those families who would be affected by the governor's budget, and gain a better understanding about the needs in our community."

All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend these meetings. The format will include a short presentation of budget proposal details, followed by an open forum intended for audience questions and suggestions. Sign up in advance to speak at the event: http://www.senate.leg.state.mn.us/ and click on Community Hearings; or contact Higgins' office at 651-296-9246 or sen.linda.higgins@senate.mn.