Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This week the legislature is on break, giving me a chance to go back to the district and catch up with constituents. Many of you have contacted me this year on important issues happening in St. Paul, and I welcome continued input as the legislative session moves past the halfway point.
Bonding Bill
The big item left on the legislature’s to-do list this year is a bonding bill. House and Senate legislators agreed last year to an $850 million bonding deal to borrow money for projects and infrastructure needs across the state. Bipartisan support is needed to pass a bonding bill through the legislature.
Currently included in the bonding bill is funding for the Southwest Minnesota Regional Amateur Sports Center in Marshall. Money for the MERIT Center in Marshall, however, is not in the bill at this time. Negotiations are still in the works, and we will wait to see what the final borrowing package looks like. I will continue to fight for projects important to our district.
I am hopeful that the final bonding bill will prioritize essential projects and find a balance between rural and metro needs.
Tax Day
Tax Day was April 15th, and another reminder to Minnesotans that we live in an over taxed state. Last year, Democrats raised $2.1 billion in new taxes, affecting everyone from middle class families to small business owners to cigarette smokers.
While some remedies to that over taxation were made this year including repeal of the business-to-business taxes and federal conformity, more still could be done. I am hopeful that next year the legislature will do more to give tax relief to hardworking Minnesotans.
Happy Easter and Passover
During this spring break at the legislature, I am thankful to spend time with my family for the Easter holiday. I wish all of you a Happy Easter/Passover. Enjoy your time with friends and family.
I will continue to work on your behalf in St. Paul. If I can ever help you or your family on a matter of state government, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Chris