To the editor,
At midnight on Monday, June 6, the 14-day deadline to sign a tax-relief bill expired. Gov. Mark Dayton decided to use what is referred to as a “pocket veto,” consequently killing the bill.
I realize the frustration people feel with the process at the Capitol, so not only am I disappointed to see such a good compromise in tax policy go undone, but also unhappy to have people think this is yet another example of good legislation that stalled.
The tax bill passed the Legislature with widespread, bipartisan support (123-10 in the House and 55-12 in the Senate). The tax reform would have benefited thousands of Minnesotans, including veterans, college graduates, families, farmers, small businesses and many more – totaling $801 million in tax relief over the next three years alone.
Although the bill was not passed unanimously, I was happy to support it because it was the most bipartisan tax bill in 30 years, with 90 percent of the Legislature voting in favor. Other than two technical changes, which needed to be addressed and were agreed to by House Republicans, the governor must feel a special session is needed. I’m not sure if vetoing the bill was the best option – in fact I think other alternatives probably existed – but at this point that doesn’t matter. If the governor does call a special session, I will happily comply. I do hope, however, a bill brought forward in a special session would be consistent with the vetoed compromise bill. We debated those items thoroughly since the start of session in 2015 and the bill served all very well.
Being a newcomer to a process far different from any I had experienced in 40 years of running a small business, I can understand why people are disappointed. Unfortunately, that is the political process and, at this point, I don’t see those dynamics changing soon. However, I will support the process we have in order to achieve the best outcome that is possible, and as always, appreciate any perspective you can share with me.
Sincerely,
Rep. Bob Vogel