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State Rep. Mindy Greiling Press Release Minnesota House of Representatives Contact:
"Citizens across Minnesota made it very clear that schools should be our first priority," said Greiling, announcing the legislation. "People are willing to pay for things that give us tangible benefits and meaningful results. Nothing benefits our state more than strong public schools." The bill proposes a restoration of the 1999 top tier income tax rate from the current rate of 7.85% to a rate of 8.5%, effective in fiscal year 2007. In addition, the bill would require the commissioner of finance to estimate the revenue gained from the rate increase, and deposit that amount in a specifically designated K-12 education account. Greiling suggested the funds could be used to mitigate rising special education costs and for school innovation and reforms. "Parents and community members across the state have passed hundreds of levies to support their schools," said Greiling. " But property taxes were never meant to be a primary source of school funding. This bill moves Minnesota closer to its commitment to adequately fund our schools." A recent poll found that two-thirds of all Minnesota voters and 70 percent of public school households were willing to invest more in our schools, even if it meant raising taxes. Citing last week's state budget forecast showing little money for new investments, Greiling affirmed her commitment to make sure education reform and innovation remain a top priority. "If we're serious about producing what Governor Pawlenty calls 'world-class' students, narrowing the achievement gap and investing in our youngest learners, we must make sure schools have the resources they need to produce high academic achievement and significant school reform," said Greiling. "Staying the course is no longer an option – we need to move forward now." The legislation was introduced in the House during Monday's floor session. -30- | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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