Howes to Chair Capital Investment Committee

State Representative Larry Howes of Walker has accepted an appointment to chair the House Capital Investment Committee, which largely focuses on construction projects throughout Minnesota.

Howes has served on the committee eight years and has been the minority lead the last five. He has played a key role in passing capital investment bonding bills by working as a lead negotiator with Gov. Tim Pawlenty.

Howes will head the panel when Republicans assume their majority status for the 2011 session in January.

Howes says, “These are tough economic times and the state faces a shortfall, but it is our responsibility to maintain our infrastructure, schools and other top priorities even in lean times. The real key is putting together a bill which meets these needs, yet is still affordable to Minnesota. I feel the experience I’ve gained in previous negotiations will help us accomplish our goals.”

Howes was re-elected to his seventh term in the House earlier this month.