Saint Cloud, MINN—On Thursday, June 30, 2016, area legislators Tama Theis, R-St. Cloud, Jim Knoblach, R-St. Cloud, Tim O'Driscoll, R-Sartell, and Jeff Howe, R-Rockville, along with Chair of the House Veterans Affairs Division Representative Bob Dettmer, R-Forest Lake, met with local veterans at the VFW Post 4847 in Saint Cloud. They discussed veteran legislation that has passed in the legislature over the last two years, including one of the largest veteran tax cuts in state history that was signed into law last month. The provision exempts all military pensions from state income taxes.
“Veterans have done so much for our country, and I am glad we were able to get this new tax relief legislation passed for them this year,” said Rep. Theis.
“Listening to our veteran community is so important, and I am glad we were able to have this meeting to hear directly from area veterans about their priorities for state government, as well as share some of the things we accomplished for them over the past two years,” added Rep. Knoblach.
“Our veterans are brave, dedicated members of our community who serve their nation selflessly,” Rep. Howe stated. “I am glad we were able to pass meaningful tax relief for them at the legislature this year.”
“It’s important to honor and recognize the men and women who sacrificed for our country,” said Rep. O’Driscoll. “These bills are just one way to assist our vets throughout the state.”
Dettmer said he is touring the state meeting with local veteran organizations to clear up confusion about the recently-passed veteran tax cut. The provision was passed as part of the supplemental budget bill, which was authored by Rep. Knoblach and signed into law, and not part of the tax bill vetoed recently by Governor Dayton.
"It's important that we get the word out about this and other important legislation that passed this year," added Rep. Dettmer. "We've helped veterans keep the pension they've earned serving our country, made it easier for veterans to start a small business, and made changes to help military members and their families transition back to civilian life. I hope these meetings will help spread awareness about all of the bipartisan veterans legislation passed over the last two years."
A full list of veteran bills passed during the 2015-2016 session is attached.