Dear Neighbors,
The House and Senate have passed their respective omnibus bills, legislation that will fund every area of state government over the next two years from transportation to education. Now, legislators are meeting in conference committees to negotiate final budget bills that will be sent to the governor for signature.
I am keeping an eye on these bills, advocating for important provisions that will impact Central Minnesota including the nursing facility payment reform that was included in the House Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill and workforce development policies that were included in the House Jobs and Energy Omnibus Bill.
We are nearing the end of session, and I will keep you updated on these omnibus bills as the House and Senate work to reach a final, bipartisan agreement that will benefit Minnesota families and taxpayers.
It's an honor to represent you and advocate for the people and priorities of our community!
Supporting Minnesota's Turkey Industry
On Tuesday, the House GOP Rural Caucus hosted a bipartisan turkey burger barbeque to support Minnesota's turkey industry which has been devastated by the avian flu. We handed out more than 500 turkey burgers in an hour!
I strongly support our turkey farmers and other folks working in that industry, and am glad so many people came out to enjoy some delicious food for a great cause!
Tax Bill
The House recently passed a $2 billion tax relief omnibus bill with bipartisan support that will benefit middle class families, aging adults, college students, farmers, veterans and job creators in Minnesota.
Some of the highlights in the legislation include:
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A new personal or dependent exemption which could save a middle class family of four more than $500
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Additional tax credits for pre-k, education and daycare expenses
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A new tax credit for college students for principal and interest student loan payments
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Additional tax credits for families saving for college or future long-term care costs
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A phase-out of the tax on social security, benefitting seniors on a fixed income
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Relief to veterans by no longer subjecting military pay or pensions to a state income tax
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A phase-out of the statewide general property tax to help lower prices for consumers and increase employee wages
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Tax credits for research and development to spur entrepreneurial innovation
The Tax Omnibus Bill is now being negotiated in conference committee between the House and the Senate. I am pleased the House had advanced a bill going into final negotiations that will offer significant tax relief to hardworking Minnesota taxpayers and families.
Liquor Omnibus Bill
The House also recently passed a Liquor Omnibus Bill that includes a provision I authored for the St. Cloud Municipal Athletic Complex. That complex is currently allowed to sell 3.2 beer, and this expands their ability to sell drinks with a higher alcohol content during games and sporting events.
I am happy this provision was added to the bill with strong bipartisan support.
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As always, I welcome your input on legislation and want to hear more about issues important to you. Please don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting, call my office or send me an email. I am here to serve you!
It’s an honor to be your voice at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Tama