Minnesota AFL-CIO Calls Budget Cuts a Step in the Wrong Direction

Minnesota AFL-CIO President Shar Knutson called the Minnesota Legislature’s passage of a budget bill cutting investment to our colleges, universities, and communities a step in the wrong direction.

“While these cuts are significantly less than what Governor Pawlenty proposed, they still force more sacrifice on the backs of middle class families,” Knutson said. “It means higher property taxes, fewer potholes getting filled, and makes a college education even more expensive.”

Today’s budget bill is the first in a series of bills to address a billion dollar budget deficit. Since January, the Minnesota AFL-CIO has advocated a balanced approach to solving Minnesota’s budget crisis.

“Middle class families have already sacrificed more than their fair share,” added Knutson. “It’s time for a balanced approach of spending cuts & revenue increases to make our tax system fair and preserve our high quality of life.”