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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Paul Rosenthal (DFL)

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Legislative Update- Transportation & Taxes

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Dear Neighbors,

We are over half way through the 2017 legislative session and omnibus bills are coming together to ensure fiscal bills stay within the parameters of the recently released budget targets.

Transportation

As a member of the Transportation Finance Committee, I’ve had the opportunity to review the House Majority’s transportation funding omnibus bill.  The plan would shift $450 million from the General Fund into a new account for road and bridge infrastructure projects, proposes $1 billion in Trunk Highway borrowing over four years and would enact a $75 annual surcharge on electric vehicles.  House Transportation Committee Chair Torkelson is giving my bill to fix the 494 and 35W interchange an informational hearing.  I will continue to advocate for a balanced final proposal that includes long-term sustainability and compromise that funds projects like the 494 and 35W interchange.  

Taxes 

The House Majority released their tax plan for Minnesota last week.  The proposal contains much of the same provisions in last year’s tax bill, such as cuts for businesses, veterans and seniors; however it does not include the working family tax credit.  The nonpartisan House Public Information Services office has provided a breakdown of the tax bill’s cost.  I am still reviewing the details outlined in the tax bill, which could reach the full House of Representatives on Thursday for a vote.  While examining these, I’ll be looking for prudent and targeted cuts that promote growth and stability to our state’s economy.

Omnibus bills will continue to make their way to the House floor before the legislative recess on April 10.  Please continue to stay in contact on the issues most important to you.  I appreciate your feedback.

Sincerely,

Paul