Dear Neighbors,
Right now, more jobs are available in northwest Minnesota than job applicants because housing is scarce for the folks who want, and need, to move here for work. What we’re seeing as a result is a missed opportunity for increased economic growth across the region.
In response, I am working to bring mid-priced workforce housing units to our area—without a fiscal impact to taxpayers. Read more here about my bill: http://bit.ly/1juUulE.
As the session moves forward, I will be sure to keep you updated on the progress of this legislation.
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Click here to read a great article by the Grand Forks Herald about the area’s housing shortage.
Tax Bill Details
Minnesotans will be eligible for bigger tax refunds and businesses struggling under the weight of new taxes can breathe a sigh of relief now that a comprehensive tax bill is law.
Legislators on both sides of the aisle came together to repeal several taxes that were signed into law last year, including the gift tax and three business-to-business taxes on warehousing and storage services, telecommunications equipment purchases, and farm/commercial equipment repairs.
We also enacted “tax conformity,” which means taxpayers can take advantage of standard federal tax credits and deductions on their state returns. That results in more money in your pocketbook.
(If you have already filed your taxes but are eligible for a bigger return, the Dept. of Revenue has said it will contact you directly with instructions on how to move forward. Click here for more information.)
In total the tax bill gives back about $440 million to hardworking taxpayers—less than a fourth of the $2 billion in new taxes that were signed into law last year.
On that note, be wary when someone applauds this bill as providing huge “tax cuts”. $1.7 billion in new taxes are still on the books. Yes, the bill provides a good first step to giving back money that rightfully belongs to taxpayers, but many of us agree more needs to be done. As your state representative, I will continue to advocate for smart policies that allow you to keep more of your hard-earned money.
Visitors
Benjamin Erickson, a junior at Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls, recently participated in the week-long High School Page Program at the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Shayne Isane, vice president of the Northwest Regional Farm Bureau, traveled from Badger to St. Paul for Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Day on the Hill.
Tony McLean (left) of Border State Bank in Greenbush stopped by for Bankers Day on the Hill. He was joined by Josh Miskovich from Duluth.
Nick Wilson of Greenbush (middle) visited as part of U of M Day on the Hill. He was joined by fellow U students, Chris Ceglia and Samantha Beck.
DNR Elk Work Groups
The DNR is seeking nominations for individuals to serve on elk consensus work groups for the Kittson County and Grygla elk herds. Apply by March 31 to make your voice heard!
Follow me on Facebook!
To stay up-to-date on what’s happening at your State Capitol, feel free to “like” my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/RepDanFabian.
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My door is always open to the needs and priorities of our area. Please feel free to let me know if I can be of assistance to you and your family. I am here to serve you!
Dan
**Encourage your neighbors and friends to sign up for my email updates at www.house.mn/01A