At the start of the 2011 legislative session, Minnesota lawmakers faced a $6 billion budget deficit that was driven – in part – by a global recession and the unsustainable growth of government spending at home. This budget deficit required legislators to make difficult choices about spending priorities and determine how best to position our state to grow jobs when the economy finally turned around.

Now, sixteen months later, following a budget deal that held government spending in check and successive budget forecasts that show a state budget surplus, the State of Minnesota is showing signs that it has found its fiscal footing.

But our state’s economy isn’t entirely out of the woods yet. Minnesota faces intense competition for business investment and job creation. And we need our elected officials to recognize that to make sure our state remains the best place to live, work and raise a family, Minnesota companies need a reasonable tax burden, a well–educated workforce and 21st century infrastructure.

Minnesota’s pro–jobs legislative majorities clearly understood this – that simply spending more and growing government wasn’t going to create jobs and lead to a strong economy. Tough choices were made, government spending was held in check and now Minnesota is in a position to grow for the future.

That’s why the Coalition of Minnesota Businesses is saying “Thank You” to pro-jobs State Legislators!