ST. PAUL, Minn. – The unexpected surge in state tax revenue has prompted Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to propose bigger Walz Checks. His plan now: Send rebates of $500 to every taxpayer. The governor’s original Walz Checks proposal, back in January, was $175. Since then, state economists have forecast a larger and larger state surplus. Walz’ revised rebates would total $2.7 million. The revision is in the governor’s budget proposal to the Legislature. The revision also includes:
> $73 million into state public pension plans.
> $23 million for state, local and tribal public health.
> $21 million to retain and recruit frontline care-providers
> $20 million for Main Street economic revitalization.
> $20 million in for emergency shelters.>
> $9 million for tougher cybersecurity defense.>
> A new State Patrol helicopter.
Earlier: Minnesota budget news better and better