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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Bob Loonan (R)

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Legislative Update (May 26, 2016)

Thursday, May 26, 2016

Dear Neighbors,

As we head into Memorial Day weekend, please take a few minutes to reflect on those that lost their lives for our county. We owe our freedoms and liberties to those who fought and died for this nation.

Session Concludes

On Sunday, we adjourned from the legislative session. One of the final bills we passed provides $800 million of tax relief in the next three years including:

  • $90.6 million in agriculture property tax relief for Minnesota farmers.
  • $110 million in tax relief for college graduates paying off student loans through a refundable tax credit up to $1,000, the first of its kind in the country.
  • $49 million in tax relief for families who contribute to 529 Plans to save for their children's college costs.
  • $146 million in property tax relief for every small business in the state by exempting the first $100,000 of commercial-industrial property.
  • $13 million in tax relief for veterans by raising the income eligibility threshold, and increasing the total credit from $750 to $1,000.
  • $150 million in tax relief for working families by expanding the working family tax credit.
  • $32 million to reduce the cost of childcare; by expanding the childcare tax credit, families could earn a tax credit up to $960.

It’s encouraging to see middle-class families, military veterans, and small business owners keep more of their hard-earned paycheck.

Bonding and Transportation

After the House passed a great bill to fund roads and bridges and other bonding projects, the Senate fumbled at the one-yard line. They took our agreed-upon bill and tried to add an amendment to fund Southwest Light Rail. After lots of confusion, the bill died as the clock ran out on session.

It’s frustrating to see just 7 metro legislators out of 201 prioritize light rail over road and bridge funding for our state. The governor can call a special session so we can finish this bill, and I hope the Senate can honor the agreement we had during the legislative session.

Please Contact Me

Although I’m sure you’ll be busy this weekend and throughout the summer, I hope you’ll contact me with questions and concerns. I’m here to help you and your family.

Best,

Bob