Dear Neighbors,
The 2017 session is underway, and we’re already making strides for Minnesota. Before the weekend, here’s a short update from the first week.
Session Starting
Although it’s the start of my third term, the feeling of being sworn-in doesn’t get old. It was especially extraordinary this year following the renovation of our Capitol. The changes are beautiful, and it’s great to have the building back open to the public. If you’re planning to be in St. Paul in the next couple months, please let me know; I’d love to take you over to the Capitol if possible.
Discussing Bills
One of the first things we did on Thursday was pass a $22 million tax relief bill. We now conform with federal tax law, and 200,000 Minnesotans will see a benefit from the change. Heading into the session, House Republicans wanted to deliver middle class tax relief, and this looks to be off to a great start.
Sadly, it wasn’t all good news from yesterday’s floor session. We had made an agreement with House Democrats to bring a bill to the floor that would provide $300 million in health insurance premium relief, along with reforms to increase access, competition, and transparency. When it came time to vote, DFLers went back on their word and wouldn’t allow the bill to be heard or debated.
We can all agree Minnesota’s healthcare system is in a state of crisis, so why would legislators block a bill that starts to fix the problem? Simply put: politics. Democrats would rather play political games than get down to the actual work of helping Minnesotans. Despite the delay, we’ll see this bill again, and I’ll support its passage so we can start to fix the mess made by Obamacare in our state.
Please Contact Me
Many of you have already been in touch to discuss your thoughts on the issues that matter most to you. Thank you for sharing your ideas! Please continue to contact me to discuss any legislation put before the House, or any other matters to which I can be of assistance. You can set up a time to visit me at the Capitol by calling me at 651-296-5185 or contact me via email at rep.tony.albright@house.mn.
Enjoy your weekend,
Tony