Dayton working on budget plan, expecting surplus
DFL Gov. Mark Dayton expects to have some extra money to work with next year, but he’s not yet willing to say what he might propose spending it on.
Dayton told reporters today that he’ll elaborate on some of his priorities for the 2015 Legislative session Thursday, after the release of the new state economic forecast.
Based on the projections in last February’s forecast, he said he’s anticipating a budget surplus of about $900 million.
“We’ll have to see the amount,” Dayton said. “But that’s the ballpark that I’m guessing at, somewhere around $900 million.”
Dayton said he’ll also spell out more of his budget plans during his second-term inaugural address, which is scheduled for Jan. 5. He said one priority will be an expansion of child care tax credits. The governor said he will present his two-year budget proposal on Jan. 27.
“It’s a process we’re beginning this week and will be working at very steadily over the next two months,” he said.
Dayton will update his proposal and Legislators will make their budget decisions based on the economic forecast due out in late February or early March.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.