5/11/2006

NEWS COLUMN

REP WESTROM RELEASES 2006 SURVEY RESULTS

Earlier in the session I inserted a legislative survey in this newspaper which asked for your input on certain topics that were likely to be debated at the Capitol this year. With nearly 1,000 responding, here’s how you felt.

When asked if they would support raising the gas tax with the money continuing to be dedicated to highways, 51% said they would not support any gas tax hike; 24% would support a 3-cent increase; 15% favor a 5-cent increase; and 10% would like a 10-cent increase.

71% of those responding say they would not support the Clean Water Act if the funds came from a water fee, but would favor the program if funding was found from another source within the current state budget, like the state lottery. Only 15% would support a water fee to fund the Clean Water Act, and 14% don’t want it under any circumstances.

When asked if legally feasible, would you support laws that create a residency requirement for people seeking Minnesota welfare benefits, and if so, how long should the requirement be, 52% answered one year; 28% said six months; 11% responded 30-90 days; and 9% would not give their support.

In addition, 74% of respondents said they support a property tax freeze through levee limits, 56% favor legislation requiring that school districts target 70 percent of their funding to the classroom; 71% feel Minnesotans should be required to provide photo identification as a requirement for voting; 81% support a constitutional amendment stating that marriage is a pact between a woman and a man; 89% favor laws that reform and limit the power of eminent domain that state and local governments have to seize private property for other private use; and 81% back the Twins most recent stadium proposal, where the cost would be paid by a sales tax increase in Hennepin County only and no state funds are involved.

As your state representative, it is a valuable way to receive your input to help in making decisions at the State Capitol. Thanks to all of you who took the time to make your voices heard!