The Legislature got to work right away after legislators were sworn in last week. The full House voted on and passed a key tax bill to simplify filing ahead of the 2022 tax year, and will secure tax cuts for certain individuals, families, and small businesses who qualify. With session slated to go until adjournment at the end of May, we’ll have time for a more in-depth discussion about taxes; more opportunities for lower property taxes, childcare tax credits, and potentially fully eliminating the state tax on Social Security benefits. I’ll be sure to keep you posted with updates. This winter’s snow falls have lifted up what it means to be a Minnesotan; to help dig each other out of our driveways, streets, and helping our older neighbors with shoveling and snow removal. It has also highlighted the incredible work and long hours our state’s Emergency Medical Services put in for all of us. We know folks in rural areas of the state continue to face challenges with EMS services; specifically long wait times for ambulances and emergency care when every minute counts. One focus of mine this session is to continue the work on finding solutions to improve response times and beef up our EMS infrastructure in Minnesota. Save the Date for ‘Coffee with John’On Saturday, January 21 at 9:00 a.m. I’ll be hosting a casual “Coffee with John” at Morning Glory’s Café Bakery for neighbors and constituents to pop in and share their thoughts and questions. Everyone is welcome, and I look forward to an engaging and respectful dialogue. You can also invite friends to join by sharing the event on Facebook here.  Stay ConnectedTo stay up to date with our important work at the State Capitol, you can see the Minnesota House of Public Information Services’ nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out at rep.john.huot@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4306, and I’m happy to help. If you were forwarded this email and you’d like to subscribe click here. Have a great week, John |