Friends and neighbors –
On February 2, Democrats pushed through a risky and expensive energy bill in the Senate. The bill, called the Blackout Bill, requires electric companies to only use carbon-free energy sources by 2040. It’s a commendable goal, but the bill is poorly executed. It puts the entire power grid in danger during severe weather events and experts suggest it will increase your energy bills by almost $4,000 annually.
It’s just not a good idea at all.
Republicans have a better solution, called the A+ Energy Plan. Our plan aims to provide energy that is reliable, affordable, and always available by using a mix of clean energy sources such as nuclear, renewable gas, and hydroelectric power. The “all of the above” approach ensures a constant supply of energy, making it the best choice for meeting the energy needs of a growing population.
Democrats block Social Security tax elimination
Republicans have been trying for years to eliminate the tax on Social Security benefits, but Democrats stand in the way every time. It happened again on January 30: we attempted to immediately bring up a bill to get rid of the Social Security tax once and for all, but Democrats blocked it.
Only 11 states still have this tax on the books, and Minnesota is one of them. It’s an unfair, shortsighted tax. I am disappointed Democrats didn’t keep their promises to Minnesotans, but I’ll keep working until this tax is gone for good.
Speaking of shortsighted: an expensive train from the Twin Cities to Duluth
Democrats love their trains. They don’t care how much it costs, how slow it is, or how much of a hassle it is.
On Monday, January 30, the Transportation Committee reviewed funding for a proposed train from Minneapolis to Duluth. It’s a fun idea until you remember that this train will cost more, take longer, and be much less convenient. Oh, and it’ll cost a fortune to build. Aside from those nagging details, though…
State Park, Fishing licenses, watercraft registrations set to increase under Walz budget
Minnesotans love the great outdoors. Fishing, boating, hiking – those are some of the things that make this state truly special. But under the recent budget proposal from Governor Walz, we’ll be paying a whole lot more to enjoy our wilderness. Increased fees on everything from boat registration to park visits. And with a $17.6 billion surplus? It defies belief.
Contact me
If you have any questions or comments about the issues we are working on, please contact me anytime. My email is sen.justin.eichorn@senate.mn, or you can call me at 651-296-7079.
Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook: https://www.fb.com/SenatorJustinEichorn.
It is a privilege to serve you!
Justin