ST. PAUL – The 2018 Legislative Session has begun, and State Representative Jason Rarick (R-Pine City) said there is much to accomplish over the next three months.
“Since we created a balanced budget in 2017, policy reforms and a capital investment proposal that will fund needed construction projects across our state are expected to be hotly debated,” Rarick said.
Rarick said federal tax conformity will receive significant discussion. Taxpayers won’t feel the impacts of the proposal until 2019, but action is needed before Minnesotans file their taxes next year. Conforming to the federal tax code would cause Minnesota to experience an increase in tax revenue, which is why lawmakers will need to take steps to ensure this revenue is returned to taxpayers in order to prevent a widespread tax increase.
Traditionally, and even-numbered year session is when state lawmakers approve a capital investment package. Last session, the Legislature approved a $987 million plan that focused heavily on infrastructure and transportation needs. Rarick said Governor Dayton has already weighed in with a $1.5 billion proposal, which is $600 million higher than what is planned for in the budget forecast.
“Considering we approved a significant bonding plan last year, I feel we should go with something that costs less this year that is centered heavily on infrastructure needs,” Rarick said.
Rarick also wants to focus on bringing broadband to unserved areas. Last session Rarick helped approve $20 million in grants for the Border-to-Border Broadband program. Some of this funding was ultimately allocated for service in Dell Grove Township.
“As session moves forward, I encourage area residents to contact my office with any comments or concerns on these or any other legislative topics,” Rarick said.
Rep. Rarick can be reached by phone at 651-296-0518 or by email at rep.jason.rarick@house.mn.