Dear Neighbors,
I hope everyone has been enjoying the warmer weather we’ve been having recently. It seems as if spring is right around the corner. It was a busy week at the Capitol as the pace of session has started to pick up with more bills moving through committees.
State of the State Address
On Wednesday, Governor Dayton delivered his annual State of the State Address. Last session we were able to work with the Governor to provide the largest tax relief bill in 20 years as well as the largest investment ever in roads and bridges without a tax increase. I am hopeful that the legislature can continue working with him this session in order to build on last year’s historic accomplishments.
MNsure Tax Reduction
My colleagues and I are continuing our work to lower health care costs in the state and last week a bill to reduce the MNsure tax from 3.5 percent to 2 percent was introduced. This reduction is expected to save Minnesotans $30 million. The bill also eliminates active purchasers to increase options on the MNsure exchange and seeks a waiver allowing people receiving tax credits to purchase insurance outside the MNsure exchange. Reducing this burdensome tax will be an important component of our ongoing efforts to further decrease healthcare costs for Minnesota’s families.
Rochester Day at the Capitol
Wednesday was the Rochester Area Chamber’s Day at the Capitol. It was an excellent opportunity for the business community in Rochester to advocate for legislative action on the issues they are facing. I enjoyed seeing such a large number of people from our area in and around the Capitol. It’s always great being in the presence of so many folks from Olmsted County!
Visitors
In addition to the many folks I saw during Rochester Day, I was delighted to meet with dozens of other people from our area during their visits to the Capitol.
Please Contact Me
I would like to encourage you to contact me with any questions or thoughts on any state government issues you may have. Consistently hearing from constituents on the everyday issues they are facing is essential to representing our communities. My door is always open, so if you plan on visiting, please contact me to set up a time for us to sit down and chat. I can be reached at 651-296-4378 or rep.nels.pierson@house.mn.
Have a great weekend.
Sincerely,
Nels