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Dear Friends,
As you have likely heard, the bipartisan tax relief bill that passed the House and Senate with 89 percent support from legislators, was pocket vetoed by Governor Dayton on Monday.
The governor says that he vetoed the bill over a drafting error—one that the House pledged to fix through a letter of legislative intent or via a one day special session.
Unfortunately, instead of putting the interests of Minnesotans first, he chose to play politics and let the bill die.
So what happens now?
Legislative leaders met with Governor Dayton yesterday and are planning to meet with him again next week to negotiate a compromise so we can repass the tax bill and a bonding bill that stalled on the last night of session.
I continue to be in touch with the Speaker as we engage with the governor on negotiations. I am hopeful that we can reach an agreement that is reasonable for both sides and get these bills signed into law.
Thank you for your patience as we work with the governor. Like you, I am disappointed but am committed to working towards a positive outcome that will benefit all of Minnesota.
Staying in Touch
I encourage you to come to Kandiyohi this Saturday for the annual Kandi is Dandy parade. The parade starts at 11:30. It’d be great to see you there!
Also, I will be participating in a dunk tank at the Grace Place Ninja Warrior fundraiser this weekend. Come out and help us raise money for this outstanding organization!
Finally, I was in Washington D.C. early this week, meeting with Congressmen Collin Peterson and Tom Emmer as well as our Senators Klobuchar and Franken to discuss Highway 23. Joined by local community and business leaders, we were communicating with our elected officials about the importance of classifying Highway 23 as a freight corridor with the Federal Highway Administration.
Thank you Congressman Peterson for meeting with us!
I will keep you updated as more information becomes available regarding special session. IN the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-6206 or via email at rep.dave.baker@house.mn.
Dave