Now that we're a little more than a month removed, and the dust has settled from the 2013 legislative session, I wanted take some time to update you on some of the work from last session, and give you a preview of what's coming on July 1st.
One of my goals when I came to Saint Paul was to work with Democrats and Republicans alike on issues that impact our communities here in Champlin and Coon Rapids. To that end, I was very proud to be a co-author on several bills with bipartisan support with direct impacts on our communities.
I co-authored legislation with DFL Rep. Jerry Newton that would have allowed local cities to set their own speed limits, allowing local communities to determine the safest speeds to go in their areas.
I co-authored multiple bipartisan bonding proposals, including money that would have secured bonding funds for Anoka Technical and Anoka-Ramsey Community Colleges, as well as a bill to renovate the Rum River Dam to help protect against Aquatic Invasive Species.
I was also one of more than 70 Democrat and Republican co-authors on a gun bill compromise that would have strengthened data sharing and made it more difficult for criminals to get their hands on guns while protecting the second amendment rights of law-abiding citizens. The bill had support from the NRA and Rep. Tony Cornish, a leader in the legislature on second amendment issues.
Looking ahead, I wanted to share with you some of the changes to our taxes and fees that are coming on July 1st. I didn't vote for these tax increases, because far too many will disproportionately impact low and middle-income Minnesotans.
Starting July 1st, the new fourth-tier income tax will kick in, taking the top tax rate from 7.85% to 9.85% for individuals making $150,000 or more, and couples making $250,000 or more.
The price of a box of cigarettes is set to jump $.48 to $2.08, with part of that funding going toward the new Vikings stadium. If you have satellite or cable television services, those taxes are going up as well.
There will be a new internet sales tax on digital download such as iTunes songs or e-book purchases, as well as a sales tax on some online purchases from companies like Amazon.
For businesses, there are new sales taxes on telecommunications equipment, as well as equipment repair taxes that will impact farmers who need to have their machinery repaired.
A small piece of good news; cities and counties will save money thanks to an exemption on the state sales tax.
The legislature is not scheduled to convene again until next February. In the meantime, if you have any comments, suggestions, or concerns, I welcome your input and would like to hear from you. You can reach my office any time by emailing rep.mark.uglem@house.mn or by calling 651-296-5513.