Hello from the Capitol!
The legislation I introduced that increases current penalties to a gross misdemeanor for those who intentionally obstruct a highway, an airport, or block access to a transit system has been included in the Public Safety and Security Committee’s omnibus bill. A vote of the bill will be taking place in the coming days.
Budget Proposal:
This week, House Republicans laid out their budget proposal for the next two years; it includes an additional $1.1 billion for our schools, a new plan to fund transportation projects, and a tax relief initiative.
The transportation plan that was introduced invests $6 billion over the next decade, with $2 billion being spent in the next two years alone, without raising the gas tax. I believe that with a $1.6 billion surplus, the Governor and lawmakers should not be proposing to raise your taxes. The bill would be funded through bonds and a re-appropriation of auto-related taxes to be spent exclusively on transportation projects. This bill is a comprehensive and straightforward approach to funding future transportation infrastructure projects, and I am hopeful for a positive reception from Governor Dayton.
Some key provisions in the bill that benefit Suburban and Greater Minnesota:
- Funds $300 million to Corridors of Commerce; this program was a big factor in the expansion of Interstate 94 through Rogers
- Creates a special fund of $25 million specifically for bridge projects recommended by MNDOT
- Requires counties or the County Transit Improvement Board (CTIB) to fund 100% of operating and future capital costs for light rail
The tax relief bill that was proposed reduces taxes for Minnesotans by more than $1.35 billion over the next two years.
Some of the bill’s highlights:
- Reduces the state tax on social security income for seniors
- Provides more credits and deductions for families saving for post-secondary education using 529 Savings Plans, as well as tax credits for student loan payments
- Exempts the first $200,000 of property value from the extra tax on local businesses and freezes the automatic inflator
These bills are currently working their way through the committee process and will be heading to the floor of the House for a vote of the entire body in the near future.
If you ever have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding any issue related to state government, please feel free to contact me at either 651-296-4237, or rep.nick.zerwas@house.mn
Sincerely,
