ST. PAUL — Dismissing a Republican push to fully reimburse Minnesota’s $1.87 billion surplus, Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton proposed a revised budget plan Tuesday he says would do more good for the state’s economy by investing in college students and families with school-aged children.

Dayton’s revisions were made possible by the state’s enlarged projected surplus, which climbed by almost $900 million from the time he produced his initial two-year budget in January. He would parcel out all but $13 million, with more money going for nursing homes, welfare grants, preschool programs and college aid and for tax relief targeted at lower-income families.

When his original plan and the rework are combined, Dayton directs roughly half of the surplus to education initiatives.

He contrasted it with the “give it all back” TV ad campaign by the state GOP campaign, which says every resident is entitled to a $350 slice.

Dayton said those types of tax cuts are like M&Ms candy, giving people quick satisfaction but leaving them no better off in the long run.