ST. PAUL, MN – One week into the 2013-2014 legislative session, State Representative Jason Metsa (DFL-Virginia) is already addressing our state’s big challenges in a way that grows Minnesota’s economy and the middle class.
The first-term Ranger co-authored four pieces of legislation designed to invest in our schools, provide property tax relief to middle class Minnesotans, and expand economic opportunities for businesses and families.
“Minnesotans sent us to Saint Paul to roll up our sleeves, get to work, and solve the big challenges facing our state,” said Rep. Metsa. “I’m excited to pitch in and be a part of the solution. The first four bills I co-authored will strengthen our economy in the short-term and lay a foundation for future growth.”
The first four pieces of legislation co-authored by Rep. Metsa include:
HF 1: In the last budget, the GOP-controlled legislature borrowed a record amount from our schools, forcing school districts to take out their own loans, which ends up taking money out of the classroom. HF 1 would pay back our schools so that we can fairly balance our budget and make sure money that was going to pay off loans is staying in the classroom.
HF2: Last year, GOP majorities eliminated the Homestead Credit, which increased property taxes on Minnesota homeowners, seniors, farmers and small businesses by $370 million. HF 2 creates the Homestead Credit Refund to provide direct property tax relief to middle class Minnesota homeowners and renters by expanding the existing Homeowner Property Tax Refund that about 360,000 Minnesotans receive every year. It would provide an additional $100 million in property tax relief to Minnesota homeowners as well as property tax relief to renters by increasing the Renter’s Credit.
HF3: The Minnesota Investment Fund is one of the state’s primary tools to encourage businesses to set up shop in Minnesota. The program has a proven track record of job creation and an excellent return on investment. HF 3 would increase funding for the Minnesota Investment Fund so our state can put people back to work.
HF4: In 2005, Minnesota opened its first trade office in China. In just one year, our state saw a 71% increase in exports to China. HF 4 would expand funding for the Minnesota Trade Office to increase our competitiveness around the globe and expand economic opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses.
Throughout the legislative session, Rep. Metsa encourages all constituents to contact him directly with any questions, comments, or concerns on any legislative issue. Rep. Metsa can be reached by phone at (651) 296-0170 or by e-mail at rep.jason.metsa@house.mn.
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