By Dawn Helgeson
Austin

One of the most important decisions that state senators will make this legislative session is whether to raise revenues and by how much. We want Sen. Dan Sparks to know that we whole-heartedly support him if he votes for higher revenues in the Senate tax bill.

We staff members at The Arc Mower County know that our tax dollars are good investments in our people with disabilities and their families. Minnesota’s Medical Assistance program, for example, is the major source of funding for programs that support people with disabilities. The disability programs help people find jobs, live more independently, and be part of our communities. They also support parents so they can keep their children at home.

Unfortunately, over the past decade, in order to balance our state budget, our state has often cut those investments instead of raising revenues. It’s time to make sure we have adequate funds for all our citizens with disabilities and their families. Sen. Sparks, know there are many in the disability community like us who are behind you if you vote “yes” for more revenues.