Agenda focuses on prioritizing spending, serving people instead of programs
ST. PAUL, March 16, 2011 – Less than one week after introducing balanced budget targets, House Republicans discussed a series of reform initiatives to reduce costs, improve service delivery, and drive government into the 21st century.
“The time for implementing real reform is long overdue,” said Speaker of the House Kurt Zellers (R – Maple Grove). “It may not be easy, but as we craft our balanced budget we’re following through on our promise to the people of Minnesota and building a strong economy and laying a strong foundation for our kids’ economic future,” Zellers continued.
From state operations to health and human services to education, House GOP initiatives focus on putting resources towards results and changing the focus from government to the people it serves. Proposals include:
- IT, administrative, and back-office consolidation
- Health and Human Services redesign
- Web-based services including one-stop HHS eligibility and application website
“Our agenda is very clear,” said Representative Keith Downey (R – Edina), who has authored several reform proposals during the 2009-10 and 2010-11 legislative sessions. “We’re going to fund priorities, not bureaucracy, and we’re going to serve people, not programs.”
Individually and as a package, the reforms offered by House Republicans promote fiscal stability, modernize state services and drive continued innovation.
“Governor Dayton’s proposed budget relied on tax increases, without even considering these reforms,” said Zellers. “I am hopeful that the Governor will work with us in the coming weeks to pass these reforms and make our state more competitive and national leaders in reform again.”
Concluded Zellers: “That’s our vision, that’s the people’s vision, and we’re going to make it happen.”