The past year has certainly seen its share of challenges.  Beginning with the projection of a huge state budget shortfall as last year's legislative session began, all the way to a state shutdown that lasted for 19 days.  But, we moved on, hopefully learning from that somewhat painful experience.  The economic forecast released in early December was a pleasant surprise, showing a surplus instead of the deficit expected by many.  It shows we are on-track in trying to "right size' government  by keeping expenditures in line with revenues and by slowing down the spending curve increase built into many government programs.

As we start the new year, there are other encouraging signs amidst the uncertainty of the European situation.  Minnesota's job figures are slightly better than the national averages, and employers seem to have more confidence in the future and are at least thinking about  adding more jobs.

All through this recession, our agriculture industry has been a bright spot.  Crop prices, although showing signs of weakening somewhat, are still relatively strong and have provided the resources to keep ag-related spending at high levels.  Those who utilize crops for feed or for making ethanol have seen their margins shrink, although in recent months, prices for meats have been at near record-high levels.  Dairy prices, which may seem high, in many cases are near the cost of production because inputs have been at such high levels.

I was honored in November by the Minnesota Milk Federation with their "Legislator of the Year" award.  The presentation took place in St. Cloud during the Midwest Dairy Expo.  I will continue working on behalf of those involved in agriculture because it represents an important part of Minnesota's economy, especially right here in the heart of dairy country in District 13A.


Rep. Anderson encourages constituents to contact his office with input regarding any state legislative issue.  He can be reached on the web at www.house.mn/13A and via e-mail at rep.paul.anderson@house.mn. To contact Anderson by phone, call (651) 296-4317.  Mail can be sent to Rep. Paul Anderson, 239 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, Minnesota 55155.