ST. PAUL – The Minnesota House on Monday overwhelmingly passed legislation allowing state taxpayers to take advantage of numerous tax provisions already approved at the federal level.
State Rep. Jeff Dotseth, R-Silver Township, said federal conformity is needed in Minnesota to ease filing compliance burdens and to help industries that were hardest hit from pandemic shutdowns – especially restaurant, hospitality, and entertainment industries.
“It was encouraging to see the House come together with this bipartisan accomplishment early in the session,” Dotseth said. “I want to work with my colleagues across the aisle and this was a refreshing instance where we all kept our eye on the ball and did what’s right for the people of Minnesota. This was one of those bills where we all got on board because the bill was in the best interest of all Minnesotans. We needed to get this done in a timely manner to make for a smoother tax season and I am pleased we delivered.”
Dotseth said at least seven federal bills have been passed into law since Minnesota last enacted legislation to match congressional changes. Tax year 2023 marks five years since our state tax code has been conformed, which Dotseth said is the longest the state has been out of conformity in decades.
State officials indicate approving the bill (H.F. 31) by Jan. 13 allows tax software to be updated in time for the 2023 filing season. Language the House passed Monday specifies taxpayers have until Dec. 31 to file an amended return.
With 132-0 passage in the House, the bill is now in the hands of the Senate and, pending that body’s approval, will be presented to the governor for enactment.
-30-