ST. PAUL – February 20 marked ‘Opening Day’ for the 2018 Legislative Session, and State Representative Tim Miller (R-Prinsburg) said a number of topics need to be addressed before the May 21 deadline.
“We approved a balanced budget last session, and now we will debate many other items of significance this year,” Miller said.
Among them will be federal tax conformity. Miller said action is needed on this proposal before Minnesotans filing their taxes in 2019 feel the impacts of it. Conforming to the federal tax code would cause Minnesota to experience an increase in tax revenue, which is why lawmakers will need to take steps to ensure this increased tax revenue is returned to taxpayers in order to prevent a widespread tax increase.
An even-yeared session is traditionally a year where state lawmakers approve a capital investment package. Last session, the Legislature approved a $987 million proposal that focused heavily on infrastructure and transportation needs. Miller said he is sponsoring two bills that he is fighting for inclusion in this year’s proposal: $6 million to build a veterans’ home in Montevideo, and $139 million so Minnesota can purchase, upgrade, and re-open the Prairie Correctional Facility in Appleton.
Representative Miller will also be working on initiatives to address local interests in healthcare, transportation, reducing regulations for businesses, and anti-human trafficking.
“As session progresses, I strongly encourage residents to contact me with their thoughts on these topics and any others that will likely see legislative debate this year,” Miller said.
Rep. Miller can be reached by phone at 651-296-4228 or by email at rep.tim.miller@house.mn.