Greetings!
Session is off to a great start, and I am very excited to be working once again as your State Representative.
Tax Relief Passed
The Republican-led House championed a bipartisan effort to bring tax relief to middle class Minnesotans as the first bill passed this session. This tax conformity measure helps preserve state deductibility of certain federal income tax deductions and, because the early passage of this bill, tax filers should be able to avoid the need this tax session to file amended personal income tax returns. Last year, the DFL-led House did not take up this measure until late March, causing delays in filing and the need for amended returns.
This provision will benefit teachers, students, homeowners, and more, providing $19.9 million of tax relief in total. I’m proud that our first bill will have such a positive impact on Minnesotans.
Increased Focus on Greater Minnesota
Our priorities this session include growing good-paying jobs Minnesotans, guaranteeing that every child in every district receives a world-class education, ensuring that we care for our seniors in long-term care, focusing transportation funding on roads and bridges, and increasing transparency and accountability in MNsure. I’m looking forward to exploring and voting on proposals that make Greater Minnesota’s future bright for generations to come.
My New Role
I’m very honored to have been appointed Speaker Pro Tempore by Speaker Daudt. As Speaker Pro Tempore, I will be responsible for overseeing and conducting House floor debate when Speaker Daudt is away or otherwise unavailable. I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to lead floor debate and ensure the passage of vital legislation that will better the lives of all Minnesotans.
Committee Assignments
I will be serving as Vice Chair of the Commerce and Regulatory Reform committee, and as a member of the Veterans Affairs, Capital Investment, Government Operations and Elections, and Rules and Legislative Administration committees.
Visit the Capitol
As always, please feel free to contact me to talk about legislation before the House. You can reach me via email at rep.tim.odriscoll@house.mn, or call my Legislative Assistant at (651) 296-7808 to schedule a time to visit my office at the Capitol.
Keep in Touch
More updates will follow as session progresses. Please share my newsletter with a friend and encourage them to sign up by visiting this link: http://bit.ly/1zhZEbK.
Thanks for sending me back to the Capitol for another term as your State Representative.
Sincerely,
Tim
Fun Fact: Snow only crunches when the air temperature is less than 14 degrees due to the strong bonds between the ice crystals. You’ll know this weekend’s warm-up is on its way when you can walk silently through the snow!