2012 Legislative Session: The Countdown

Leaders in both the House and Senate are aiming to adjourn the 2012 legislative session on April 30th, two weeks from today.  Here is a preview of what the final two weeks may hold.  

BUSINESS TAX CUTS.  Republicans in charge of the House and Senate are proposing tax cuts for businesses, with the money for the tax cut coming from a reduction in renters' tax credits.  The governor has proposed similar business tax cuts, with the money for the tax cut coming from a reduction in tax breaks for corporations doing business out of state and from collection of a sales tax on purchases from online retailers. 

DAYTON TEES UP END-OF-SESSION PRIORITIES.  The governor just sent a letter to Republican legislative leaders emphasizing his desire to create jobs with 1) proposed repairs and renovations of state buildings, 2) State Capitol repairs, and 3) a Vikings stadium. He proposes the use of bonding to pay for these proposals over 20 years. 

PAYOUT PREDICAMENTS: BURNSVILLE, BRODKORB & BRUININKS.  A bill is expected to come up on the House floor as early as today, requiring greater disclosure and transparency when school districts make pay large sums to settle potential legal claims.  The legislation was prompted by a recent $255,000 payment by the Burnsville school district to its former human resources director.  In related news, former Senate GOP communications director is seeking $500,000 to settle his legal claims against the Minnesota Senate.  Finally, the University of Minnesota Board of Regents just announced it is reviewing its policy regarding executive payouts, after former President Bob Bruininks was found to have authorized more than $2 million in retirement and transition packages to some top executives shortly before he retired.   

FISHING OPENER DEBATE.  Should Minnesota's fishing opener be moved up from May 12th to May 5th?  Proponents are arguing that with Minnesota's early ice-out, the move would make sense, and would avoid a conflict with Mother's Day on May 13th. 

STADIUM: TOUGHEST TEST TONIGHT.  The House Government Operations Committee debates the Vikings stadium bill tonight at 6pm.   

HOTTEST ISSUE?  Many are surprised to see what legislators consider the most controversial issue at the Capitol.  For more information, check out www.facebook.com/State.Rep.Joe.Atkins.

SCOOPS FOR TROOPS.  Scoops of ice cream, that is.  I agreed to be a "celebrity scooper" at the Tribute to the Troops 5K Run and 3K Walk in Eagan on Sunday, April 29th.  Whether you are a runner, walker, or just like eating ice cream, please join me at 1pm on the 29th to raise money for the Fallen Heroes Children's Education Fund.  More info can found at http://scoopsfortroops.net/RaceInformation.aspx 

As always, I welcome comments or questions about these or any other legislative topics.  Please call me at the Capitol at 296-4192 or email me at Rep.Joe.Atkins@house.mn.  There's also a survey that can be taken anonymously at www.JoeAtkins.com, in the right-hand column.