Sawatzky wants ideas for cuts

Governor Dayton is not keen on House Democrats' proposal
for a temporary income-tax surcharge on those making over 500-thousand
dollars a year, calling it "a bit of piling-on." He says the plan "goes too
far" in increasing the tax rate on top earners. But Dayton continues pushing
hard for a permanent income tax increase on the top two-percent of
Minnesotans -- something leading Democrats in both the House and Senate also
support. DFL Representative Mary Sawatzky of Willmar who says no one wants to pay more taxes but everyone wants more services or adequate funding for services.   She says she would love to hear from constituents on what services they would like to see cut.  Also at the Capitol Wednesday Senate Democrats released the outline of their
budget plan, which beefs up education spending -- including voluntary all-day
kindergarten statewide. There would also be more money for higher education,
plus property tax relief. Senate Democrats say they'll pay for it by
increasing income taxes on the top two percent -- something Governor Dayton
wants -- plus a cigarette tax hike and a sales tax on Internet purchases.
Senate Republicans warn that Democrats, despite the struggling economy, are
proposing a three-billion-dollar increase in spending with two billion in tax
increases -- all to close state budget deficit that's smaller at about 600
million dollars.  (MNN-KWLM)