Neighbors,
I’m proud to have introduced my first bill of the legislative session last week. HF710 delivers on transportation promises made in 2008 by reallocating the revenue from the Motor Vehicle Leasing tax. Rather than the revenue going into the General Fund, as it does currently, my bill places fifty percent of the revenue into the Greater Minnesota Transit budget, and the remaining fifty percent into the County State Aid Highway Fund for the suburban counties of Anoka, Washington, Carver, Scott, and Dakota. I’m proud to put forth a bill that delivers on nearly $70 million of transportation funding – $12 million for our county – without raising taxes or increasing fees. HF710 was passed out of the Transportation Policy and Finance committee, and awaits a hearing in the Taxes committee.
This morning, the office of Minnesota Management and Budget released their February budget forecast. The forecast showed that Minnesota is set to experience a budget surplus of $1.869 billion. As we prioritize our finances going forward, I would hope that this surplus would be used to provide tax relief to all hardworking Minnesotans, as well as investing in roads and bridges to improve transportation statewide. I look forward to continuing to discuss our budget going forward, and encourage you to contact me to share your thoughts and priorities.
Please feel free to contact my office at any time to discuss your thoughts on the legislation presented before the House. I often reserve time on Fridays to meet in Lakeville, and I would be honored to tour your business or meet with your group. You can schedule an appointment to meet with me in St. Paul by calling my office at (651) 296-6926, or by emailing me directly at rep.jon.koznick@house.mn.
It is an honor to serve you.
Rep. Jon Koznick