Rep. Ilhan Omar: Budget Surplus Should Support 'Struggling Families'

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Last week, Minnesota Management and Budget released the February Economic Forecast, revealing a projected $1.65 billion surplus.

DFL State Rep. Ilhan Omar, of Minneapolis, called for the surplus to be used for investments in education, jobs and infrastructure:

"This improved forecast continues to show a strong and stable Minnesota economy, but we know that many of our neighbors feel less certain about their own economic future," Omar said in a statement. "We must seize this moment to invest in the things that make us great: education, jobs and infrastructure."

"The public is calling on us to invest this surplus in support of students in E-12, avenues to affordable higher education and job training, improved transit networks, and better supports for struggling families like reducing the costs of childcare, senior care, and health insurance."

Omar also said that the state "cannot be successful as a state if we don’t ensure the success of all Minnesotans."

Image via Minnesota House of Representatives