Friends,
March is one of the most exciting months with all of the high school winter sports finishing with their state tournaments. Congratulations to Maple Grove Crimson Boys Hockey Team for winning their sectional final this week! There were also some exciting events at the Capitol this week as we approach the final week before our 1st deadline for committees.
Bill to Aid Family Farms Passes House
House File 22, my bill that will aid family farms by exempting them from an annual reporting requirement for land held in trusts, unanimously passed the House this week. This is an important bill that will help protect small family farms and I am proud to have carried it though the House.
Condo bill passes the Civil law Committee
I am chief authoring a bill that is redefining how condo and townhome associations operate. This bill passed through the Civil Law committee this week after a lengthy debate. The changes in this area of the law will create more home ownership opportunities for people wishing to buy a mid-level priced home. I look forward to this bill being heard on the House floor soon.
Rep. Smith chairing a committee hearing
$1.65 Billion Surplus
The February budget forecast showed that Minnesota has a $1.65 billion surplus for the 2018-19 biennium. While this means Minnesota's economy is strong and projected to continue growing, it also means that Minnesotans are being taxed too much.
I will now work with my colleagues to craft a budget that funds our shared priorities - like education, taking care of our seniors, and fixing our roads and bridges - while respecting tax payers. Working to provide tax relief will be one of our top priorities during the remainder of the session.
Sunday Sales to Governor's Desk
The Senate passed their version of Sunday Sales this past week and on Thursday the House re-passed that version meaning that the bill is now just waiting the signature of Governor Dayton. The Governor has said he will sign the bill. Bottom line is that starting July 1st, liquor stores will have the ability to be open and sell alcohol on Sundays.
Rep. Smith with constituents around the Capitol
Maple Grove Boys Hockey Advances to State Tournament
With their 4-3 victory over Centennial on Thursday night, the Maple Grove Boys Hockey team advanced to the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament! It's great to see all their hard work pay off. Seeding and schedule will be released on Saturday - can't wait for the tournament to start on Thursday! Go Crimson!
Osseo Farmers Market Seeking Vendors
The Osseo Farmers Market is seeking vendors for their farmers market that runs from July 11th through September 26th. It takes place every Tuesday from 3-7pm and is located on the north side of Boerboom Park near downtown Osseo. Those interested in being a vendor can call 763-425-2624 to get more information.
Please continue to share your thoughts with me about our state government; bill ideas and concerns are welcomed! I am honored to serve you at the Capitol. My email address is Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn, phone number 651-296-5502, and by mail: 375 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155.
Have a great weekend!
Dennis