Sen. Howe Is Pushing for Permanent Tax Cuts During Legislative Session

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Legislative Session begins Monday, and one of the biggest decisions lawmakers need to make is what to do with the state’s estimated $7.7 billion surplus. Senator Jeff Howe of Rockville says the money should be returned in tax breaks, not checks.

“I’m not a fan of writing checks out and sending it back, but I’m not necessarily opposed to maybe doing a tax credit. If we can’t make some permanent tax relief for folks I’m not interested in spending a bunch of money on programs.”

The Republican says he would prefer the Legislature hold on to the surplus if lawmakers can’t agree on tax relief.

“I’m not going to knuckle under and give the Democrats any of that money to spend unless we have some significant tax cuts, tax credits and tax rebates, and cut some permanent taxes in 2023.”

Howe says he would like to see Minnesota stop collecting taxes on social security benefits and reduce the corporate tax rate. He says cutting taxes will provide families and businesses with some relief in the face of rising inflation. Howe says he’s been in the Legislature for ten years, and in that time, Minnesota has always had a tax surplus. He says now is the time for permanent tax relief.

Minnesota’s projected $7.7 billion budget surplus, but that number will be revised in February. With a two-year budget already in place, lawmakers do not pass any spending bills.

Senator Howe also says his focus this session will be on reducing the cost of living, cutting crime, and empowering parents.

He says Senate Republicans plan to present a series of tax cuts targeted to working Minnesotans, families, and seniors to help them afford their everyday life.

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