Years ago, Tom Brokaw used to give "Fleecing of America" reports on his nightly newscast. Sadly, Minnesota House Democrats are taking this level of fleecing to new heights in our state. Recently, the House Rules committee – controlled by the DFL – approved budget and pay raise increases that would make even the most generous employer blush. Included in this action is a nearly 100 percent increase in committee budgets – from $324,000 to $646,000, and an increase in legislators’ gas payments for inner district travel. Under this new formula, at least one representative could receive $1,600 a month in district mileage, no questions asked. Of course, this follows the earlier move by the Rules Committee to give themselves a healthy pay raise. You’ll recall that representatives can now claim $77 each day for per diem – or meal money – and $1,200 per month to find a place to live year round, even if they’re not in St. Paul all year. The DFL also increased the number of House committees as well this year, creating more bureaucracy and less efficiency at significant taxpayer expense. It is painfully obvious that House Democrats are prioritizing themselves and their interests over the interests of the average Minnesotan. How else can you explain the clamoring for a gas tax increase while protecting themselves by increasing their mileage reimbursements? If you’re tired of these backdoor pay raises and fiscal irresponsibility, contact your state representative and tell them you’re fed up with the "Fleecing of Minnesota!"
