Greetings from the Capitol!
A lot of exciting news to share after another eventful week in St. Paul.
Passage of House File 1:
On Thursday, the House passed House File 1: the 2017 Health Care Emergency Aid and Access bill on a bipartisan vote of 73-54. We are now one step closer to getting people the premium relief they need. I look forward to this bill going to conference committee with the Senate next week and I am hopeful for the Governor’s signature.
To review, some highlights of this bill include:
- 25% premium reduction for those Minnesotans who earn between $35,640 & $95,040 and families of four who earn between $72,900 & $194,400
- Allows for patients with serious illnesses or those receiving end-of-life care to continue seeing their doctor
- Increases affordable options through timely reforms that stand independent of impending federal action
Testifying in Taxes Committee:
I had a chance to testify to a bill in Taxes committee this past week that I co-authored: House File 186. HF 186 provides a vendor allowance of between 0.75% and 2% of sales taxes collected during a reporting period to all retailers who report and remit taxes.
I understand the tax burden that our state tax structure places on our small businesses and I am committed to supporting these main street businesses that are the lifeblood of our community. This bill is one step forward in reducing their tax burden.
Federal Tax Conformity Update & Review:
House File 2, federal tax conformity, was passed by the Senate and signed into law by the Governor last week. Some key aspects of the bill include:
- Deductions for higher education costs
- Deductions for teacher classroom expenses
- Itemized deductions for mortgage insurance premiums
- Eliminating the need for two sets of equipment depreciation schedules
If you ever have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding anything related to state government, please do not hesitate to contact me at rep.barb.haley@house.mn or 651-296-8635.
Sincerely,
Barb