Dear Neighbors,
The 2019 legislative session adjourned Monday night with much of our work unfinished. While the Governor, Senate Majority Leader, and Speaker have agreed to the framework of a budget deal, we still know little to no details about how the state’s $48 billion budget will be spent. In fact, all but one of the omnibus finance bills remain stuck in conference committee.
Here’s what we do know: the Senate successfully held the line on Democrats’ gas tax proposal. Thanks to pressure from the public and the Senate’s willingness to stand firm, we were able to defeat the extreme 70% gas tax increase.
That’s good news.
Unfortunately, part of the “global” deal agreed upon by the Senate, House Democrats, and Governor Walz included a continuation of the sick tax.
The sick tax is levied on most patient services in Minnesota and makes health care more expensive.
The tax was set to expire this year and I am very disappointed to see that it will continue in perpetuity.
That’s all for now. I should have more information for you later this week or whenever a final deal is agreed upon. There are still dozens of issues that remain unresolved and it remains to be seen when a special session will be called to finish our work.
Until then, please do not hesitate to contact me to share your thoughts. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4229 or via email at rep.glenn.gruenhagen@house.mn.
Have a good day,
Glenn