Dear Neighbor,
The series of omnibus bills which will form our state budget for the next two years are in the process of being reviewed by House-Senate conference committees to reconcile differences between the two bodies' versions.
The biggest differences between the House and Senate – and the governor – appears to remain in the area of taxes. House Democrats still propose raising taxes on people who earn less than $22,000.
Once conference committees finish their work, bills will return to the House and Senate floors for a final vote and – upon passage – they will go to the governor for his approval or veto.
In the meantime, the House is receiving policy bills on the floor. Legislation pertaining to same-sex marriage and day care unions are among those we expect to see soon. The House Speaker did go on the record this week saying legislation pertaining to new gun restrictions will not come to the floor this year.
Another omnibus bill that has not been heard on the House floor yet pertains to energy. Much opposition was raised about certain parts of it, including a proposed solar mandate and accompanying tax. These would result in higher energy costs for consumers.
I will keep you up to speed as these and other issues develop in St. Paul.
Sincerely,
Tom