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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Bob Vogel (R)

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Legislative Update

Monday, March 19, 2018

Dear Neighbor,


We've had another busy week here at the Capitol. Dozens of bills are heard in committee daily and we have passed a number of bills off the House floor. I've continued to be a watchful eye of taxpayer dollars as various proposals are brought through the committees on which I serve. There are always far more new great ideas than funds to pay for them. We must continue to prioritize needs over wants to keep and improve the state's fiscal health. 

Pension Stress Test

Last week I introduced House File 3686 that will require annual testing of the state's pensions through a number of scenarios relating to pension liabilities, therefore giving decision makers a better idea of where things are now. Having that information then allows for better ways to confront planning for the future. Unfunded pension liability is a real threat to our state's future fiscal health, and knowing there is no single solution to putting our state on solvent pension footing, begs the question of what can be done. Stress testing the pension system will help to give us a clear picture of what our options are. 

Both my bill in the House and the Senate version have co-authors from both parties. This is an important issue and one that I do believe we can tackle together.

MNsure Tax Reduction

We are continuing our efforts to lower health care costs and last week a bill that would reduce the MNsure tax from 3.5 percent to 2 percent was introduced. The bill also does away with 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. Decreasing this burdensome tax will be an important part of further lowering health care costs for Minnesota’s families this year. This tax reduction is expected to save Minnesotans $30 million.

State of the State Address

On Wednesday night, Governor Dayton gave his final State of the State. In 2017, we worked 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 the legislature can continue working with him this session in order to build on last year’s historic accomplishments.

Please continue to stay in touch to share your thoughts and ideas on issues important to you. You can schedule a time to meet with me in my office anytime by calling (651) 296-7065 or share your thoughts via email by emailing me at rep.bob.vogel@house.mn

Have a great week,

Bob