Senjem speaks out against scrapping "Truth in Taxation"

Yesterday, senators approved a bill aimed at reducing state mandates on local governments. As part of that bill, cities, counties and schools would no longer have to hold "Truth in Taxation" hearings. This hearings are currently required every year and generally held in November and December. The hearings are aimed at giving citizens a chance to understand proposed property tax increases and local budgets.

Senjem tried to amend the bill on the Senate floor, arguing these hearings should still he held. But the Rochester Republican's amendment failed by a vote of 23 to 40. Fellow Rochester Sen. Ann Lynch was among four Democrats voting in favor of Senjem's amendment.

In a released statement, Senjem said, "Ending 'Truth in Taxation' hearings at a time in history when we need more citizens involved with their government and paying more attention to tax policy in Minnesota is simply wrong."

Here is a link to the mandate elimination bill.