Neighbors,
We have returned from our Easter/Passover break and during the next six weeks, we have many items on our “to do” listTax Conformity
The tax conformity bill is a priority measure we need to pass. The legislature will consider conforming to the tax bill passed by Congress last year and signed into law. If we do nothing, many Minnesotans will see a tax increase. If we fully conform, even more will see an increase. I support Gov. Dayton's approach focusing on working families. Click HERE to learn more about the governor’s balanced plan that would cut taxes for over 2 million Minnesotans. This is a common-sense approach that helps families across the state.
Bonding
I believe we should pass a robust bonding bill this session. With interest rates expected to rise, now is the time to invest in rebuilding and renovation, giving Minnesotans the best deal for their dollar. On the top of my list for inclusion in a bonding bill would be the projects at St. Peter Regional Treatment Center, the Pavilion at Minnesota Square Park in St. Peter and finishing the clinical science building at MSU. We also need to fix our crumbling wastewater infrastructure, provide badly needed repairs to deteriorating college campus buildings and continue to address the affordable housing shortage.
Child Care
Child care, or rather lack of available, affordable child care, has reached a crisis for many Minnesota families. My colleague, Rep. Sandstede, has introduced a bill to provide grants to licensed family daycare providers, prioritizing geographic areas with a documented shortage. The grants could encourage the creation of more child care businesses. The bill supports local collaborative efforts to expand opportunities.
As always, contact me with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Clark Johnson
State Representative