Friends,
It's March, which means it's State Tournament time! It also signals that we're deep into session, the governor has put forth his budget request, and the House is busy hearing a large number of bills, which has offered all interested the opportunity for a lively debate. See my update below and have a great week. As always, feel free to contact me with any further questions you may have!
Governor Walz's Budget Proposal
Governor Tim Walz released his budget proposal for the 2020-2021 biennium, it is highlighted by more than $3 billion in tax increases over the next two years as well as $4.7 billion in tax increases for 2022-2023. His proposal would raise Minnesota's gas tax by twenty cents—vaulting Minnesota's gas tax to 4th highest in the nation. It also includes increases to tab fees, the motor vehicle sales tax, the Metro Area sales tax, business taxes, and reinstatement of the sick tax, which is set to expire at the end of the year, adding $1 billion to the cost of health care for Minnesotans over the next two years.
At a time when Minnesota has a billion dollar surplus, we should be looking at ways to enact tax reform not proposing a 70 percent gas tax that will move Minnesota to the 4th highest gas tax rate in the country. We have put forth ideas, including eliminating the tax on social security and lowering income taxes for all Minnesotans, that will make Minnesota an even better place to live, work, raise a family, and retire in. Governor Walz's proposal takes Minnesota in the opposite direction. When it comes to Governor Walz's One 'Expensive' Minnesota budget, the price is wrong.
Please Contact Me
Many of you have already been in touch to discuss your thoughts on the issues that matter most to you. Thank you for sharing your ideas! Please continue to contact me to discuss any legislation put before the House, or any other matters to which I can be of assistance. You can set up a time to visit me at the Capitol by calling me at 651-296-5185 or contact me via email at rep.tony.albright@house.mn.
Enjoy your week,
Tony