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From the Desk of Representative Steve Smith
Dear Neighbors -
2009 is a challenging time for Minnesotans. Families and individuals will be asked to overcome tall obstacles to reach new levels of success or even to maintain what they have. With the economic hardships that everyone is facing, the legislature has to do its part to live within its means.
Your state legislature has a duty to make sure you have the opportunities to attain what you need to take care of yourselves and your families.
Here is my outline for leadership in 2009 that, I believe, will turn our state around:
Relieve pressure on out-of-work Minnesotans by bringing more jobs into Minnesota and helping people get back on solid ground. This will take tax cuts, mandate eliminations, and removing the walls that hinder job creators.
Funding the core and essential responsibilities of state government. The first responsibility of any civilized government is to provide public safety and justice to its people. This needs to be done first.
Then find new, innovative ways to maintain our quality-of-life advantages without the over-burdensome taxes that tarnish our state's reputation. "Please don't raise taxes" said Governor Pawlenty in his State of the State address. That is a good idea.
We're in a different economic environment now, with different rules and more global competitors. The policies and practices that made our state great 30 years ago are not working as we plan for the next 30.
My commitment to you is the hard work and leadership necessary to achieve these goals. I will work with the Governor, the Speaker, and the Senate leadership in preparing the budget for this coming biennium. I hope they share the same priorities as I do in making sure we fund the priorities of our state and ensure you the opportunity to earn a better tomorrow.
The times are rough right now. But they will get better and we can stand together. To work for the people of Minnesota. And a common bright future.
Steve
Steve Smith
Deputy Minority Leader
State Representative
House District 33A
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