Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Here is an update from the Capitol.
Road and Bridge Act Advances
On Tuesday, the House passed its Transportation Omnibus Bill. Included in the bill is the Republicans' Road and Bridge Act which will put $7 billion into our roads and bridges over the next ten years without a new gas tax or increased fees.
Calling for the repair or replacement of over 15,000 lane miles and 320 bridges statewide, the plan will be greatly beneficial to our community. Not only do families rely on our infrastructure to get to work and drive their children to school, but businesses also need quality roads to conduct commerce.
With nearly three-fourths of my surveyed constituents saying they oppose Governor Dayton's gas tax proposal (which will cost Greater Minnesota drivers $180 more per year), I am pleased the Road and Bridge Act is advancing this session. It's a thoughtful alternative transportation plan that places a substantial investment into our roads without taking billions more from taxpayers.
Republicans Unveil Tax Omnibus Bill
Earlier this week, Republicans unveiled their Tax Omnibus Bill for FY2016-17 that will return $2 billion to Minnesotans through tax relief. Included in the legislation is money for middle class families, college students, aging adults, veterans, farmers and job creators.
For example, for middle class families with children, there are tax credits to help reimburse for daycare expenses and additional education deductions for early learning and K-12. Moreover, for people saving for school with a Minnesota College Savings Plan or for future long-term care expenses, there are additional tax credits that would be available as well.
For our seniors, Republicans are proposing to phase-out the income tax on social security and for our veterans who honorably served our nation, we would no longer be subjecting their military pay or pensions to income tax.
What's more, our bill will make our state more business friendly, attracting businesses to start, grow and hire in Minnesota. The Tax Omnibus Bill includes a phase-out of the statewide general property tax which will help lower prices for consumers and increase wages for employees of local businesses. Plus, the legislation beefs up the research and development credits and the Minnesota Angel Investment tax credit.
We all know Minnesota is a high tax state, and we want to lessen your tax burden by providing $2 billion in tax relief. I will keep you updated on the Tax Omnibus Bill, as it's expected to be debated sometime next week on the House Floor.
As always, if you have any questions or comments on legislative issues, I welcome you to contact my office.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Sincerely,
Brian