Dear Lakeville Friends and Neighbors,
This weekend is the Minnesota fishing opener, which also signals the last few weeks of the legislative session. While there’s not much time left, we are committed to finishing strong and yet optimistic on passing your priorities of increased transportation funding, and tax reform. Before you cast a line, I wanted to pass along notes on these items we’re still looking to pass into law.
Transportation Funding
One of the most important items still to be achieved is a long-term, sustainable transportation plan. House Republicans proposed over $6 billion over the next decade for roads and bridges without raising taxes on Minnesota families. Our plan could fix 15,000 lane miles of road, and over 300 bridges around the state.
Just months ago, Governor Dayton stated an increase of the gas tax was “dead”. Now, this has become a major part of his, and the Senate DFL’s plan. Passing over a 16 cent per gallon gas tax increase would hurt low-income Minnesotans most. Unfortunately, this seems to be a major hurdle for Democrat members. The majority of our residents want road and bridge funding without paying more at the pump, and I hope Governor Dayton and Senate Democrats don’t hold funding hostage again this year so they can pass another tax.
Another hold up is the level of transit (both bus and train) in the plans. We have a number of bus transit options in the House plan, but Democrats also want more for light rail funding. I would even be in favor of a smaller plan and continue to build on that in the next term, like we do on other budget areas.
Tax Relief
If we can come to an agreement on transportation funding, I’d like to see targeted, middle-class tax relief. With a general fund surplus, the state doesn’t need more of your paycheck. Our plan includes relief for seniors, recent college graduates, military veterans, and property owners. Minnesota families deserve a break, but I worry the Democrats longing for a gas tax increase could put both transportation funding and tax relief in jeopardy.
Bonding Bill
During the second year of the biennium, we usually pass a Capital Investment bill to fund needed projects throughout the state. The Senate and governor have proposed massive amounts of borrowing, putting our future at risk. Each year, the state pays $750 million in debt service. Although interest rates are low, it’s important to focus on roads and bridges and tax relief before turning to putting excessive projects on the state’s credit card. The Senate proposed a $1.8 billion bonding bill, but thanks to Senate Republicans it did not receive 60% of votes needed to pass. Our House bonding proposal will be significantly more reasonable in size and scope.
Housing Bill Signed Into Law
I mentioned last week that one of my bills, HF2956, unanimously passed the House. The bipartisan legislation assists the Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA) in better serving area residents. Just a few days ago, Governor Dayton signed my bill into law! I’m proud to author a bill that supports workforce, senior and affordable housing initiatives to our area.
Rotary Taste of Lakeville
We may still be in session next Thursday, May 19th when the annual celebration starts in Downtown Lakeville, but hopefully I can make it before it’s over and get a chance to sample some of the great offerings. As a Rotary member, I’d love to see you there. If you need tickets, visit www.tasteofLakeville.org.
Please Contact Me
In the closing days of session, we’ll be spending more time on the House floor debating bills. If you’re interested in any issue we’re discussing, please contact my office to share your opinion. You can reach me at (651) 296-6926 or Rep.Jon.Koznick@house.mn. Also, please forward this email to neighbors or friends that would be interested in keeping up with the end of the legislative session.
Have a wonderful weekend, remember to wear your life jackets and be safe.
Jon Koznick
State Representative, Lakeville, 58A