Walz’s updated budget proposal includes $500 checks to Minnesotans

KSTP Staff KSTP

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Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has released an updated state budget proposal.

Last month, the state’s Department of Management and Budget released its economic forecast, which said Minnesota’s expected budget surplus would increase to $9.2 billion, an increase from the original forecast of $7.5 billion.

Due to the updated economic forecast, Walz’s new proposal calls for direct rebate checks to Minnesotans in the amount of $500 for single tax filers who earn less than $164,400 and $1,000 for couples who earn less than $273,470. The governor said 2.7 million Minnesotans would receive rebate checks under his plan.

HAPPENING NOW: Gov. Tim Walz announcing supplemental budget at a gas station on New Hope/Crystal border. Says higher gas prices are one reason Minnesotans will benefit from direct rebate payments he proposes of $500 for individuals and $1000 for married tax filers. pic.twitter.com/cImt2ymFTG
— Tom Hauser (@thauserkstp) March 17, 2022

“Thanks to the hard work of Minnesotans across the state, Minnesota’s economy is strong,” Walz said in a statement. “With a historic surplus, we have an opportunity to provide direct relief to Minnesotans and invest in the future of our state. Amid global economic uncertainty, direct payments are one of the best ways to make it easier for Minnesotans to pay their bills. Right now, we have the resources to send $1,000 to Minnesota families.”

Additionally, Walz’s revised plan includes:

$73 million for combatting inflationary pressures on state public pension plans,
$20 million for the Main Street Economic Revitalization program,
$9 million for better cybersecurity defense & funding for a new Minnesota State Patrol helicopter,
$23.5 million in state, local and tribal public health systems,
Another $20 million for emergency shelter services and resources.

Republicans have called for permanent tax cuts and more police officers.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has a conversation at a Holiday gas station Thursday, March 17, 2022, in New Hope. (KSTP)

A more detailed breakdown of the governor’s proposal can be seen here.

AT 10:30: MN Governor Tim Walz will triple size of proposed rebate checks for Minnesotans to $500 for individuals and $1,000 per married couple. Other changes to his supplemental budget will also be announced after surplus grew from $7.7B to $9.25B. pic.twitter.com/9B11DaYPOi
— Tom Hauser (@thauserkstp) March 17, 2022

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS will continue to update this story as new details become available.