On Thursday, Senate Republicans passed a jobs creation bill that included bonding, tax, and budget provisions for the entire state. The bill invests in Minnesota’s critical infrastructure providing $300 million for wastewater treatment and $700 million for roads and bridges. Additionally, the legislation includes $200 million in tax relief for small businesses and farmers.   

“This bill is a great big compromise and an investment in the people of Minnesota,” said Capital Investment Committee Chair Dave Senjem (R-Rochester). “From investments in wastewater treatment to emergency response centers to safe roads and bridges, every corner of our state will be better because of this bill and our commitment to the state.” 

Included in the legislation are funds for additional funds for Highway 14 and the County Road 104 Interchange to improve the safety of the corridor.  Additionally, the bill provides resources to the city of Oronoco for the construction of a wastewater collection and treatment sewer system.

A top priority of Senate Republicans was Chapter 179 tax conformity for main street businesses and farmers. This change allows farmers and other small business owners to deduct large equipment purchases on their taxes that will stimulate the economy with investments in their operations.   

In the supplemental budget portion of the budget, public safety is prioritized. This week, Senate Republicans released a report highlighting the inaction from Walz resulted in an increase in destruction and violence during the riots. The bill does not provide funds to rebuild businesses that were damaged but reimburses law enforcement agencies for their work in quelling the riots this summer. It also includes a pay raise to State Troopers.