SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Senator Heather Gustafson (DFL—Vadnais Heights) voted in favor of the Senate Tax bill Tuesday evening, which includes $4 billion in tax cuts — the largest tax cut in state history.
“The Senate tax bill will reduce costs for working families, support our seniors, and put money back in Minnesotans’ pockets,” said Senator Gustafson. “Under this bill, 76% of Minnesota’s seniors will pay $0 in taxes on their Social Security income. I continued to press for full Social Security tax elimination during the floor debate today, just as I have all session. As we approach final negotiations on the tax bill, I will fight to ensure tax cuts for seniors receiving Social Security income and public pensions are included in the final bill.”
The Senate Tax bill also included Sen. Gustafson’s bill to allocate $325 Million for local law enforcement and public safety investments.
“I’m particularly glad that my proposal to allocate $325 million in public safety spending was included in the final bill,” added Senator Gustafson. “This funding will help our local law enforcement make the necessary investments to create a holistic public safety system that addresses the needs of our communities, especially in responding to mental health crises.”
During the floor debate, Senator Gutafson voted yes on a proposal to fully eliminate the state tax on Social Security benefits, but the amendment failed.
The Senate Taxes bill passed on a vote of 34-33. The Senate will enter into conference committee negotiations with the House of Representatives to craft a final tax bill which must pass in both chambers before it reaches the desk of Governor Walz. Watch the full debate here.
Photo courtesy of Senate Media. Description: Senator Heather Gustafson (DFL—Vadnais Heights, center) speaks with Senate Tax Chair Ann Rest (DFL—New Hope, left) and Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL—Hermantown, right) on the Senate floor.
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Learn more about Sen. Gustafson.
