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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Sandy Layman (R)

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News From Representative Layman 2-17-2017

Friday, February 17, 2017

Dear Neighbors,

It’s a good thing Grand Rapids hosted the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association Winter Rendezvous last weekend. The recent warm-up is giving us an early taste of spring but is making things difficult for our winter sports fans. Before you head outside to enjoy the weekend, here’s a short update on this week in St. Paul.

My Bills

As you know, I sought this legislative office to help put a business-friendly face on northern Minnesota and I have been working on a number of bills that will help small businesses in our area. The first is a tax bill, HF1019, to ease the tax burdens on growing businesses in Greater Minnesota. The statewide general tax hurts small businesses around the state, and this bill is one way to help our main-street business owners.

I just introduced another tax bill yesterday, HF1372. This legislation changes the Iron Range fiscal disparities program to contain annual tax rate changes to no more than a three percent change from year to year.

Interesting Committee

Each week, I have a number of committee hearings where we hear and discuss bills or presentations with various state agencies. One of my meetings, in particular, was especially fascinating. Representatives from the Como Zoo came to the Legacy Committee on Monday and brought some of their animal friends – a friendly sloth and a little penguin. Here’s a photo of me and Rep. Mary Murphy meeting Chloe the sloth!

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The committee chair was unable to attend, so I was fortunate to chair the meeting. What a fun experience!

This Week’s Visits

Thanks to everyone who came to St. Paul this week to visit me in my office. I met with area nurses, representatives with the Community of Minnesota Resorts, forestry students, and more. I learn by listening to your ideas, and encourage residents of our area to schedule a time to stop by.

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I hope you’ll enjoy the spring-like weekend. If you have a question about anything we’re discussing in St. Paul, please call or email my office.

Best,

Sandy