The following article by Patty Dexter was posted on the Eden Prairie News website February 15, 2018:
The 2018 legislative session convenes on Tuesday, Feb. 20.
The newspaper contacted Sen. Melisa Franzen for a Q&A previewing the session.
What are the biggest issues facing your district this session?
I’ve heard from constituents on a variety of issues that I’m giving priority in the upcoming session: These issues include; the impacts of the federal tax bill on the state, our vehicle and license registration system, access to affordable health care, net neutrality, chloride water pollution, and long-term care. I’m aware of the frustration and uncertainty surrounding these topics, and I’ve also seen positive community mobilization to respond to them. Thank you for sharing your views and expertise with me as I prepare for session.
How would you characterize the legislature’s relationship with the governor?
The legislature, the governor, and the state judicial system are three co-equal branches of government, and our state is best served when each branch is as strong as the other two. I look forward to working closely with Governor Dayton to pass a significant bonding bill and a smaller supplemental budget that helps Minnesotans across the state and right here in Eden Prairie.
What ways will national politics impact Minnesota politics this session?
The Legislature passed a $650 million tax cut in 2017, which would typically mean this session would be relatively quiet on the topic of tax legislation. However, Congress’ federal tax reform package enacted in December leaves the Legislature with serious choices for debate during this session. If we conform to the new federal tax law, significant state tax law reforms will be necessary to avoid an $815 million tax increase for Minnesotans. If the state does not conform, 2019 state tax filing will be extremely complicated for most taxpayers.
How will the legislature keep operating in 2018 if it runs out of money?
The Legislature still does not have a budget of its own. The House and Senate are currently operating on funds previously appropriated to the Legislative Coordinating Commission. Governor Dayton announced he is willing to sign a legislative funding bill early in the session, but it is likely the Governor will require concessions from the Republican majority in the House and Senate before he signs a funding bill. I hope to work on passing a legislative funding bill within the first few days of session.
What should the legislature do about the $43 million request by Gov. Mark Dayton’s administration to fix the Minnesota License and Registration System?
I’m disappointed this issue has become the subject of partisan bickering. Instead of bickering I would like to find a durable fix to this problem as soon as possible in a way that’s cost effective. I’m not yet convinced we must scrap all the work that’s been done to upgrade the system. There will likely be more hearings regarding the MnLARS system to ensure we’re on track to making the system work without further delays.
What are your thoughts about the latest delays in the Southwest Light Rail Transit project?
I am pushing for the Southwest Light Rail Transit project to move forward quickly. People need reliable transportation to and from work, medical appointments, and daily travels. While it’s frustrating to see a service that many people would benefit from be stalled, it’s imperative the project moves forward transparently when it comes to safety and environmental considerations. We won’t reap the full potential of the Light Rail Transit system until the network is completed.
What tax changes would you support to conform with the federal tax changes?
We’re facing three choices: One option is to conform our state taxes to the federal law, resulting in a massive tax increase for many individuals and business. Another option is to opt out and leave our tax laws unchanged. Minnesotans will then have to calculate their taxable income twice next year: once under the new federal standards and again under existing Minnesota tax law. The last option is a mix of these two. I will be working to find solutions that balance our fiscal responsibilities and reduce the impact of the federal tax bill on Minnesota taxpayers.
What are your thoughts about the lawsuit related to Sen. Michelle Fischbach’s desire to retain her position as the president of the Minnesota Senate while acting as the lieutenant governor?
This matter is now under judicial review in State District Court. I look forward to the Court’s decision in this matter. My opinion is that the State Constitution does not permit Senator Fischbach to serve simultaneously as a State Senator and as Lieutenant Governor.
How should sexual harassment be addressed at the capitol?
Every workplace in Minnesota, including the State Capitol, should be free of sexual harassment. Minnesota Management and Budget’s sexual harassment report was released just last month. The report includes recommendations to make Minnesota workplaces safer for everyone. The recommendations set high standards for public and private employers. The legislature and State agencies should take these recommendations seriously and adopt sexual harassment protections for workers at all levels of our State government.