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There's an old saying that perception becomes reality, so maybe it would be helpful to address a growing myth before it becomes truth in the minds of Minnesotans.

It has been good to return home and talk with local citizens after the 2011 session ended. Most folks want the scoop on our unresolved state budget and, with increasing frequency, I am fielding this question: Why did the Legislature spend so much time on social issues this session instead of balancing the budget?

It initially struck me as an odd question, since we put the vast majority of our effort toward the budget this session and spent very little time on social issues. Out of curiosity, I did some research and determined that only a little over 2 percent of the time I spent on the

House floor in 2011 was dedicated to social issues. I serve on three finance committees and another committee pertaining to rules, so if you add time spent in those meetings, I put less than 1 percent of my time toward social issues.[[In-content Ad]]

There are several reasons Minnesotans may have a distorted perception of how we used our time during the session. First of all, headline counts and broadcast minutes dedicated to social issues may paint a disproportionate picture. The media is a business and hot-button issues are good for sales. Coverage of folks waving signs to support a social cause at the Capitol make for good ratings, but it is not always an accurate portrayal of what is taking place within the walls of the House chamber.

Protesters often gather for one cause outside as we are inside debating bills on a completely different topic. For example, bills I authored to aid well drillers and fix annexation issues passed the House late this session as people rallied at the Capitol for other reasons.

I appreciate the input and the questions I receive from constituents. If you ever have a question regarding what is being reported or what you hear on the street, please feel free to give me a call and I will provide you my perspective. You can reach me at (218) 821-8591.

Sincerely,

Rep. Larry Howes

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