Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Here is an update with the latest news from the Capitol.
In this Issue:
Governor’s Budget Raises Taxes on Minnesotans
House Republicans are committed to advancing a tax bill that puts more money back in the pockets of hardworking Minnesotans and ensures they can take full advantage of both state and federal tax relief.
The governor’s budget plan, in contrast, would raise taxes on Minnesotans in every income bracket—not just the rich—according to an analysis done by his own Department of Revenue. Households making less than $32,000 per year would be hit the hardest. His plan includes reinstating more than $1 billion in health care tax increases and repealing tax reductions we passed last session, along with a number of changes regarding federal tax policy.
House Republicans will be unveiling our tax bill soon that includes a plan for federal conformity and will work to hold as many Minnesotans as possible harmless. Our focus remains on ensuring Minnesota taxpayers are able to keep more of their hard earned money.
Veterans Homes
House Republicans are advancing a plan that uses excess funds from the Vikings Stadium Reserve Account to build three critically-needed veterans homes in Preston, Bemidji and Montevideo.
The House State Government Finance Bill included funding for these homes last year, but was vetoed by Governor Dayton. We are advancing these projects again, as a way to ensure more servicemen and women can receive the care they need, and more veterans will be able to choose locations that are closer to the communities they call home.
Community Events
The Spring Fling Market, Craft and Bake Sale is tomorrow, Saturday, April 21 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Rogers Community Center. Plenty of handmade, manufactured or previously owned treasures and irresistible bargains will be on sale. Lunch served from 10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m., and door prizes given out throughout the day. 21201 Memorial Drive in Rogers
Join the St. John the Baptist Knights of Columbus in Dayton for their pancake breakfast this Sunday from 8:30-11:30 a.m. In addition to pancakes, the menu includes sausage, potatoes, eggs, coffee and juice. A free will offering will be accepted. 18380 Columbus Street in Dayton.
The Mary Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo on Sunday beginning at 1:00 p.m. in the church basement. Plenty of games with snacks available for purchase. 21304 Church Avenue in Rogers.
At the Capitol
Students from Rush Creek Elementary were at the Capitol this week
I was proud to introduce UMD Athletic Director Josh Berlo and Men’s Hockey Coach Scott Sandelin who brought the NCAA Men’s National Hockey Championship Trophy to the House Floor on Wednesday.
It was Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild Day on the Hill this week
With Minnesota native and gold medal winner Jessie Diggins
Peppin’s MinnTriv
Thank you to everyone who participated in the last Peppin’s MinnTriv. The question was: The latest recorded snow in Minnesota happened on June 4, 1935, in this town, located in Koochiching County. The answer was Mizpah.
Congratulations to Tom Pollock from Maple Grove who is this week’s winner.
As we continue to dream about warmer weather and spring, here is this week’s question:
What is the record high temperature reached in Minnesota, recorded on July 29, 1917, in Beardsley, MN?
The SIXTH correct response will be featured in the next email update.
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In order to best represent our communities, I need to hear from you, so please don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time. My direct line is 651-296-7806. My email address is rep.joyce.peppin@house.mn and my mailing address is Room 459 State Office Building, 100 Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard, St. Paul, MN 55155.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Sincerely,
Joyce
**Encourage your neighbors and friends to sign up for my email updates at www.house.mn/34A