Rep. John Benson: 'I Support Introduced Priority Pieces of Legislation'

Dear Neighbors,

As the state legislative session begins again, I would like to thank you for allowing me to serve as your State Representative. Before us is the challenge of honestly balancing the state’s approximately $2 billion deficit.

I am proud to support five newly introduced priority pieces of legislation. Among the goals of these bills is expanding economic opportunities for families and businesses, implementing a healthcare exchange, and strengthening our commitment to public education in Minnesota.

This legislation is only a starting place. As the legislative session moves forward I am eager to hear your ideas and concerns. I will continue to send you updates from the capitol and information about upcoming meetings and events.

Sincerely,

John Benson

State Representative

BILLS INTRODUCED

Paying Back our Schools

House File 0001 bill would pay back what was borrowed from our schools in the previous budget so that we can fairly balance our budget and make sure money that was going to pay off loans is staying in the classroom.

Property Tax Relief for Middle Class Minnesotans

House File 0002 creates the Homestead Credit Refund to provide direct property tax relief to middle class Minnesota homeowners and renters, many who have been squeezed in recent years. It also provides property tax relief to renters by increasing the Renter’s Credit.

Creating Jobs throughout Minnesota

House File 0003 and 0004 increase funding for the Minnesota Investment Fund, one of the state’s primary tools to encourage businesses to set up shop in Minnesota; and will expand funding for the Minnesota Trade Office to promote Minnesota’s competitiveness globally.

Health Insurance Exchange

House File 0005 is a bipartisan bill that will create a new online marketplace where individuals, families and small businesses will be able to get quality, affordable health coverage that fits their budget. Minnesota families are projected to save over $1 billion by using the exchange to purchase insurance.

COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

I am serving on the following committees: Rules and Legislative Administration (vice-chair), Education Policy,

Environment and Natural Resources Policy, Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Finance, Health and Human Services Policy, and Taxes

STAY INFORMED

Along with these updates, another great way to be informed is to read the non-partisan magazine of the House: The Session Daily, which can be found online atwww.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sdaily.aspx.

You can also watch House floor sessions atwww.house.leg.state.mn.us/htv/schedule.asp.

Consider signing up for email updates on specific bills atwww.house.leg.state.mn.us/leg/billsublogin.asp. And you can sign up for email updates on specific committees atwww.house.leg.state.mn.us/maillist/mailinglist.asp.

John Benson