Senate Republicans’ Advancing Minnesota agenda focuses on working families
I am a big believer in transparency. Last year, Republicans announced our Advancing Minnesota agenda early because we wanted to be clear what our priorities were. I am proud we accomplished every item on our to-do list.
This year, Senate Republicans are making the same commitment. Recently we unveiled our Advancing Minnesota agenda for 2018. Just like last year, our agenda is simple – we will work on issues that help Minnesotans and their families.
Protecting your wages: The Trump Tax Cut was a great thing. As we have seen, companies across the country are already passing the savings on to employees, and people are already seeing more money in their paychecks. Unfortunately, some Minnesotans might inadvertently end up paying more because of our outdated state tax laws. Our top priority will be fixing Minnesota’s state tax code to simplify the process, keep our state competitive, and make sure everyone reaps the benefits of the federal tax cut.
Improving school safety: We are all devastated by the shooting in Parkland, and we have to make sure none of our children ever have to endure such a tragedy. That is why Senate Republicans are focused on improving school safety and security. Minnesota offers a levy that school districts can use to raise money for safety improvements such as police officers, student counseling, gang prevention, cameras, and other upgrades. In 2018 we will increase funding so schools can add more of these crucial improvements, but we will give districts the flexibility to determine their own needs.
Cleaning up the DMV disaster: I have long railed against the DMV disaster created by the failed rollout of Minnesota’s new vehicle licensing and registration system (MNLARS). After 10 years and nearly $100 million MNLARS has been a failure, yet the governor’s administration has demanded another $43 million to get the project back on track. Unfortunately, they have not provided any specifics that indicate they know what to do. We will keep holding them accountable; I will not support appropriating any additional funding until they provide answers and a specific plan.
Highway 14 and state infrastructure: Expect a responsible bonding bill that focuses on brick-and-mortar infrastructure to be completed this session. Recently, the bonding committee visited our area, where I showed senators the importance of completing the Highway 14 project. I will strongly advocate for Highway 14 to be included in this year’s infrastructure bill.
Health care affordability: In 2017 we made health care costs a priority. We not only provided emergency relief for those who needed it most, but we also added new reforms to help lower costs over the long-term. In 2018, we will continue our work on health care by focusing on improving choices and transparency, so consumers have better information when they make their health care decisions.
Batting the opioid crisis: The opioid addiction crisis has devastated families in every corner of the state. Republicans will emphasize successful local pilot programs that focus on community involvement, and dedicate new resources to treatment and prevention. In 2018 we will make significant strides in the fight against opioid abuse.
Better mental health care: I will support funding for mental health crisis centers, which can help reduce the strain on our prisons and emergency rooms. Too often those facilities are treating patients struggling with mental illness because there is nowhere else for them to turn.
Just like 2017, Senate Republicans are focused on the issues that help Minnesota families. I would encourage you to follow my Facebook page at Facebook.com/SenatorJohnJasinski or visit www.mnsenaterepublicans.com to stay up to date on the latest news.