Dear Neighbor,
Happy Independence Day weekend! I hope your summer is off to a good start and that you, too, will be able to get out and enjoy events and festivities in our area as we celebrate our nation’s independence.
As for legislative notes:
Meetings with constituents
While the Legislature currently is not in session at the Capitol, my calendar has been packed with meetings to discuss issues with local individuals and groups. We’ve had good discussions reflecting on what took place during the 2023 session and addressing issues that we need to address in the future. Just a couple of recent visits include:
Above, thank you North Country Ride and Therapeutic for hosting myself and Representative Natalie Zeleznikar. This organization is one of the best kept secrets in Greater Minnesota. Below, had a great time with some amazing young men and women at the 49ers training facility!
Thank you to everyone who has taken time to share their thoughts with me and, if you would like to arrange a meeting, please reach out to me using the contact information in this email.
New laws on July 1
A number of new laws are set to take effect in Minnesota on July 1, coinciding with the start of the new fiscal year. The 2023 legislative session ended in late May with the DFL trifecta putting into law nearly $10 billion in tax increases.
Of that total, Minnesotans are set to face $3.8 billion in transportation tax hikes alone. Some of these tax increases are set to take effect as of July 1. Here are some of the new transportation-related expenses to note:
- Vehicle registration tax/tabs: This tax hike averages to be a 36% increase over the first 11 years of your new vehicle. The change will apply to taxes payable for a registration period starting on or after January 1, 2024.
- Filing fee increases: Filing fees will increase to $8 on every vehicle registration renewal, excluding pro rate transactions. This section is effective October 1, 2023.
- 50-cent delivery fee on retail deliveries over $100: Over $189 million over four years is expected to be leveled on residents who shop from home thanks to this tax. The fee will be implemented on deliveries over $100. Exemptions include deliveries for groceries, prepared food, baby products, and feminine hygiene products. The tax would begin on July 1, 2024, and is the largest delivery tax in the U.S.
- $6 Fee increase for driver licenses: This is effective July 1, 2023, and applies to applications made on or after that date.
- Gas tax – automatic increases for inflation: The expected gas tax hike beginning January 1, 2024 is 5 cents over four years. Drivers will pay $423 million over four years for this Democrat priority.
- Metro sales tax changes: This 0.75% increase in the 7 county Metro Sales Tax for Transportation will see 83% of funds go toward Metro Transit funding and 17% will be sent to Metro Counties for local road projects. This section is effective for sales and purchases made on or after October 1, 2023, and applies in the counties of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington.
- Increase in motor vehicle sales tax from 6.5% to 6.875%: Will give Minnesota the 5th highest Vehicle sales tax rate in the U.S. This section is effective for sales and purchases made on or after July 1, 2023.
These transportation tax hikes were unnecessary and add to the burden Minnesota families already face with higher costs on pretty much everything in today’s economy. Democrats did not need to raise taxes when we had a record surplus and it is disappointing more wasn’t done to provide relief for Minnesotans instead of adding to their challenges.
Click here for more details on all the laws that take effect July 1.
Until next time, here’s hoping you have a good Independence Day. Please be safe out on the roads, on the boat or around fireworks this weekend and I look forward to seeing people at area parades and events. Let’s stay in touch.
Sincerely,
Jeff