Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This week marked the first committee meetings in the Minnesota House. Being new the legislative process, it was great to sit in on these first hearings, learning more from experts about a number of important topics that will affect our community and state.
Additionally, I have already been studying a number of important pieces of legislation this session and have signed onto three bills that I believe will have a positive impact on Minnesota.
The first bill, House File 72, will expand tax credits for young families, offering certain deductions for prekindergarten expenses. Whether it is pre-k programs through the school district, Montessori schools or daycare providers with early childhood development credentials, this legislation could help more young minds receive an early education and put kids on a track to academic success by the time they reach elementary school.
The second bill I am co-authoring is House File 137, a bill that will attract more retired veterans and their families to our state. Minnesota is one of only five states to still tax veteran retirement income, putting our state at a competitive disadvantage when it comes to getting veterans to call Minnesota home. This bill would subtract $1500 a year in taxable income for each year served in the military—up to 20 years. Remember, many of these people drawing on military retirement pay aren’t at retirement age. By passing this bill, it will encourage them to buy a house, start a family, pay income taxes and support local economies right here in Minnesota.
The third bill I am proud to co-author is House File 96, a bill that conforms Minnesota’s estate tax to the federal exclusion amount. Changing our state’s estate tax laws will allow people who worked hard to grow successful small businesses to pass on their business to the next generation without facing harsh penalties from the state. It’s a commonsense piece of legislation that I am hopeful will advance this session.
Finally, this week the House passed House File 6, a key piece of legislation that conforms our tax code to the federal government, making it easier to file taxes and ensuring people can receive their maximum refund. From educator classroom expense deductions to mortgage insurance premium adjustments, House Republicans prioritized this bill and passed it through the legislature with no partisan agenda—ensuring everyone can file their taxes this season without having to amend their returns.
As always, I am grateful and humbled to be your state representative, and will be fighting hard for the people and priorities of Woodbury this session. If I can be of any assistance to you or your family on a matter of state government, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I am here to serve you!
Sincerely,
Kelly
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