Today on a party line vote, Senate Democrats once again blocked a bill that would eliminate the income tax on Social Security benefits. This year Senate Republicans have attempted twice to bring forward legislation that was part of an agreed-upon tax bill from 2022. Democrats have blocked both attempts.

“I am baffled at Senate Democrats’ repeated attempts to refute the importance of this legislation,” said Senator Eric Pratt (R-Prior Lake). “This language was part of a bipartisan agreement last session. Senate Republicans and Democrats both provided resounding support for this measure and promised constituents that it would get done this year. Republicans have tried twice to bring forward this bill, only to be struck down by a party line vote each time. There is no reason for this bill to not be voted on. Senate Democrats’ inaction on this measure sends a message to our seniors that their taxes are valued more than their presence—Minnesota is no longer a desirable place for retirement.”