St. Paul, Minn. – Today, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released the November budget forecast which revealed a historic budget surplus of $7.7 billion for the FY 2022-2023 biennium. In response, Senator Patricia Torres Ray (DFL- Minneapolis) released the following statement:
“With MMB’s announcement of a historic $7.7 billion surplus, it is evident that Minnesota is being given a tremendous opportunity to invest in our state. In doing so, we must prioritize intervening on behalf of marginalized communities. Now more than ever, we are positioned to invest in an equitable recovery that would uplift those who have been left behind and disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.
It is clear that our robust economy continues to open opportunities for business and those who are are more advantaged. The surplus must be used to provide economic relief to the disadvantaged. Winter is upon us, and numerous Minnesotans experiencing homelessness still do not have access to shelter. Additionally, communities of color and Indigenous populations, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and rural populations continue to experience healthcare inequality, economic hardship, and housing instability – inequities that have been amplified by the pandemic.
It is time for Minnesota’s leaders to focus our attention on uplifting these communities. I urge my fellow legislators to utilize this incredible opportunity to enact positive and long lasting change for all Minnesotans.”
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