Greetings,
We are in the final turn of the legislative session, as only days remain before it is constitutionally-mandated to end on Monday, May 17.
I continue my work on the commerce conference committee. House and Senate leadership still have not agreed upon an overall budget target number, but we are anticipating that total to be finalized over the weekend.
HOUSE MAJORITY CONTINUES PUSH FOR TAX HIKES
There is a major reason why a deal on the budget has not been reached. House Democratic leadership, despite bipartisan opposition in the House chamber, continues its push for billions in tax hikes that would raise taxes and fees on gasoline, license tabs, Main Street businesses, and middle-class Minnesotans. This is a sticking point, despite the fact that money is flooding the state right now.
Minnesota has a $1.6 billion budget surplus, and billions of dollars more in federal aid is being sent to us from Washington. The Republican-controlled Senate has also made it clear it will not accept a tax increase of any kind this session.
With this type of financial standing, there is literally no reason to raise taxes on anyone in this state. The longer House leadership continues its push for tax increases, the less likely a budget is finalized before May 17.
Speaking of taxes, I continue my fight to ensure PPP loans that were accepted by local business owners last year, as well as Unemployment Insurance income that many laid off workers were forced to accept, aren’t taxed. Both of these items would be taxed unless the Legislature makes some adjustments.
KEEP IN TOUCH
As always I'm continuing to support constituent needs. Feel free to contact me anytime at rep.tim.odriscoll@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-7808.
Be well,
Tim