Greetings,
Budget bills continue to arrive on the House floor for full debates. Conference committees are also forming in hopes of representatives and senators finding common budget ground within each area of state government.
Over the next 10 days, I expect things to move quickly at the legislature. If that happens, I will provide more regular updates in the coming days.
TAXES BILL WILL NOT RAISE TAXES
A new bipartisan tax bill ensures no tax increases for anyone over the next two years. This is significantly different than last session, when over $10 billion in tax hikes were passed by a legislative Democrat majority and Governor Walz despite a record $18 billion surplus. The bill also cuts $40 million in spending in each of the next two budget cycles to address our future deficit. The bill provides targeted relief by aiding disabled veterans, expanding tax deferrals for seniors, and giving small retailers a sales tax credit.
HUMAN SERVICES PROPOSAL PRIORITIZES NURSING HOME FUNDING
The Minnesota House’s human services budget plan boosts nursing home funding by $95 million over the next two years. This stands in sharp contrast to Governor Walz’s proposal, which would have cut $700 million from nursing home funding over four years. The bill also includes reforms aimed at cracking down on fraud in administrative and public health programs. Nearly $1 billion has already been lost to fraud, making these reforms a critical step forward.
HABEMUS PAPUM - and he's an American
People around the world are celebrating Pope Leo XIV, including Americans. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is the first American in the history to assume the papacy. He was born in Chicago in 1955.
To all of our mothers, Happy Mother’s Day! And if you are taking part in the fishing opener this weekend, good luck!
KEEP IN TOUCH
As always, I'm continuing to support constituent needs. Feel free to contact me anytime at rep.tim.odriscoll@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-7808.
Have a good weekend,
Tim