Minnesota Budget Bites

Paying taxes is how we come together to fund public services that Minnesotans value and count on, but with our current system, the majority of folks pay to meet their tax-filing responsibilities. Direct File is a free online tool to file and prepare income taxes, and Minnesota can build on positive federal progress on making this option available. Read our blog to learn about how a Direct File system would benefit Minnesotans by saving time, money, and improving access to tax credits.

Governor Tim Walz released his governor’s supplemental budget proposal. The administration described the priorities for his budget as safe communities, clean drinking water, and support for children and families. At the Minnesota Budget Project, we were thrilled that one of our top priorities was included in the governor’s supplemental budget: resources to implement advance periodic payments of the Child Tax Credit. In total, Walz proposed $200 million in net general fund spending increases and revenue reductions in FY 2024-25 and $27 million in FY 2026-27.

Minnesota’s new Child Tax Credit (CTC) will help families achieve their goals and invest in a better future for themselves and their children. Earlier this session, members of the House Tax Committee heard a brief overview of the state’s Child Tax Credit, which was created in the 2023 tax bill, and an update on its implementation.

This year, policymakers are considering transformational changes and long-overdue investments to make Minnesota a state...