House Republicans in Minnesota announced on April 10 a new budget proposal called the North Star Comeback, which aims to provide $3.8 billion in tax cuts for residents. The plan, described as the largest tax reduction in state history, is intended to address affordability concerns for Minnesotans.
The proposed budget includes several measures: reducing car tab fees to previous levels, eliminating taxes on tips and qualified overtime through an annual rebate program, ending taxes on Social Security payments, and offering a property tax rebate to offset recent levy increases. These initiatives are expected to have immediate financial effects for families across the state.
Representative Duane Quam said that Minnesota currently ranks seventh nationally for overall tax burden and that many families are struggling with inflation. “Please be assured that I am doing everything within my power at the State Legislature to help you keep more of your hard-earned money,” Quam said.
Quam also criticized Governor Walz for not opting into a federal program that would provide up to $1,700 in federal tax credits for donations supporting scholarships at public or private schools. He said this decision affects rural schools in particular because these organizations play an important role there.
In addition, House Republicans have introduced an amendment related to school lunch funding. The bill would require families earning more than 500% of the federal poverty level—about $156,000 for a family of four—to pay for their children’s school lunches while keeping breakfast free for all students. According to Quam, this measure could free up approximately $170 million per year that schools could use as needed.
The announcement also recognized Kasson-Mantorville High School senior Leila Galloway’s recent national title win in powerlifting and encouraged constituents to share their thoughts with Representative Quam.
