Many Feel Proposed “Walz Checks” Not Enough

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – Governor Tim Walz wants use the $7.7 billion surplus to send Minnesota residents a check, but many feel what he’s proposing is a slap in the face.

The Governor, if approved by the legislature plans to issue single tax filers in the state $150 while married couples would receive $350. Senator Kent Eken says the “Walz Checks” aren’t very big, “It’s not very much, especially considering the inflation rates we’re experiencing now.”

Eken, a Democrat is hopeful that Minnesotans will receive additional help in the form of tax cuts, “There will be tax cuts as well coming from the ongoing revenue coming into the state – so there will be more on top of – there will be tax relief.”

Republicans, however are generally opposed to the one-time direct payments and support permanent tax rate cuts, however Walz, has said permanent cuts would risk budget deficits during a downturn.

The legislative session begins Jan. 31, and deciding what to do with the state’s record-high budget surplus is just one of the key issues that will be discussed.