Members,

The 2021 legislative session is already half over. Tax relief is still in play for licensed gambling charities, but we must let our legislators know how important relief is for us and our ability to continue serving.

It has been reported that the state currently has a $1.6 billion surplus, tax receipts are coming in better than anticipated and Minnesota is expected to receive $4.7 billion from the Federal Government for COVID relief.

Now is the time for charities to get the relief that will help keep us viable in our communities. The relief bill that has been heard in the Senate Tax Committee would provide an 11% reduction in combined receipt taxes. That represents $10 to $13 million annually, depending on net receipts. We would still be sending in $85 to $100 million, which is $17 to $32 million, more than is required for the general fund and stadium bond payments.

Leaving charities out of the mix on relief at this time is wrong. We have done more than our fair share in providing revenue to the state. Now is our time for much needed relief.

Below are the Senators that have leadership roles in the Senate. If any of them represent you, you and your entire organization need to make contact with them and stress the importance of relief. Let them know what an extra eleven percent in bottom line dollars would mean for your mission and community.

Senator Paul Gazelka Senate Majority Leader, Senator Susan Kent Minority Leader, Senator Roger Chamberlain Assistant Majority Leader, Senator Jason Isaacson Minority Whip, Senator Zack Duckworth Assistant Majority Leader, Senator Melisa Franzen Assistant Minority Leader, Senator Carla Nelson Tax Chair, Senator Foung Hawj Assistant Minority Leader, Senator Karin Housley Assistant Majority Leader, Senator Nick Frentz Assistant Minority Leader, Senator John Jasinski Assistant Majority Leader, Senator Mark Johnson Deputy Majority Leader, Senator Jeremy Miller President of the Senate, Senator Kent Eken Minority Whip, Senator Bill Weber Assistant Majority Leader, Senator David Tomassoni President Pro Tem.

If Tax Chair Senator Nelson is your Senator thank her for her support and her bill that would give us much needed relief.

You can find out who represents you at https://www.gis.leg.mn/iMaps/districts/

Don’t let this opportunity slip through our fingers yet again. One phone call, e-mail or letter may be just what it takes to get this done.

Regards,

Al Lund