Dear Neighbors,
Some updates from this week in Saint Paul:
First Bill
On Thursday, February 7th, I officially dropped my first bill for introduction. I am proud to be the chief author, along with many bipartisan co-authors, on a Veterans Hiring Tax Credit bill that would provide tax incentives to businesses who hire veterans.
Our servicemen and women who fight to protect this country should not return to stand in unemployment lines. This bill provides tax relief to businesses and helps veterans get jobs here in Minnesota. Simply put, it's a win-win jobs bill. I am grateful for the widespread bipartisan support, and to Senator Chuck Wiger (DFL-Maplewood) for carrying the companion bill in the Senate.
This coming Monday, February 11th, I will be joined by Senator Wiger, Secretary of State Mark Ritchie, and several veterans for the formal announcement of the bill at a press conference at the State Capitol in Room 125 at 2pm.
State of the State
On Wednesday, February 6th, the Governor came before a joint legislative session to deliver his annual State of the State address. Prior to the event, House Republicans held a listening session with local job creators from our districts around the state. It was an honor to be joined by small business owner Margaret Minegar, who owns Bunkbedder LLC. The roundtable provided valuable feedback and firsthand accounts of the possible impacts of Governor Dayton's tax proposals and how they would potentially hurt small businesses and companies across Minnesota.
Congratulations
I want to wish special congratulations to District 57B schools Green Leaf Elementary School in Apple Valley and Rosemount Elementary School for being designated 2013 Celebration Schools. These schools were selected because they have demonstrated significant progress in their efforts to increase student achievement, and are well deserving of this recognition.
Gun Bills
This week, several bills were heard in committee that would restrict the Second Amendment rights of many law-abiding gun owners. As a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, I plan to vote against any legislation that would infringe on our Second Amendment rights. I have received hundreds of calls and emails from Second Amendment advocates, and hope that in the coming weeks we can focus back on the important task at hand: balancing the budget and creating a healthy environment for job growth in Minnesota.
Photo of the Week
Fire Chief Nealon P. Thompson and Minnesota State Volunteer Firefighters Association Secretary Dave Ganfield.
Have a great weekend,
Anna Wills
State Representative, District 57B