Dear Neighbors,
This week, the House has been continuing to debate and vote on tax conformity legislation and omnibus finance legislation. As we see these bills, I’m committed to putting the values of the people in our community first. Here are some updates from the Capitol:
Tax Conformity
On Monday, we heard the tax conformity bill. Due to changes in the federal tax code last year, Minnesota must decide to what extent it will conform to those adjustments. Gov. Dayton’s proposal is specific and targeted toward providing a tax cut for 2 million Minnesota families and including deductions for small business expensing while protecting our hard-won fiscal stability.
Unfortunately, the Republican majority passed a bill more heavily weighted toward tax cuts for corporations instead of families and small businesses. We should be working to improve opportunities for all Minnesotans and I’ll continue to advocate for that in the remaining weeks of session.
Finance Bills
Along with tax conformity, House Republicans pushed through omnibus finance bills covering transportation, health and human services, and public safety. More are on the way but the first round of these bills did far too little to earn my support. We also have yet to shore up our state’s pensions, pass a robust jobs bill, ensure seniors and people with disabilities are safe from abuse, and take action to make college more affordable.
Kenyan Delegation
A couple weeks ago, a delegation from the government of Kenya visited the Minnesota State Capitol to see how our government works. At a reception, I had the opportunity to ask questions and hear what they took away from their visit here. It was an excellent learning experience for all of us.
Small Business Week
Gov. Dayton proclaimed Tuesday as Small Helps All Day, in commemoration of Business Week. This week is National Small Business Week. The United States has celebrated Small Business Week since 1963, commemorating the contributions of entrepreneurs and small business owners. Minnesota has more than 503,000 small businesses, which employ approximately 1.2 million people. Overall, small businesses employ approximately 47 percent of Minnesota’s workforce.
To learn more about the tools and resources available to entrepreneurs interested in starting a business in Minnesota, click here.
You can view a copy of Governor Dayton’s proclamation here.
“Sold Out” Screening
Produced by Twin Cities PBS, “Sold Out: Affordable Housing at Risk” is a film revealing the true cost of rising rent prices and apartment upscaling in our communities.
Details on a film screening and panel discussion featuring tenants, advocates, and community leaders are below:
Monday, May 7
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church
12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd
Apple Valley, MN
To register, follow this link.
Please stay in touch with your questions or concerns as session draws to a close.
Sincerely,
Sandra Masin
State Representative