Minnesota House Bill HF2591

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/20/25

Caption

Fifth tier of individual income tax at a rate sufficient to offset lost federal Medicaid funds established.

Impact

The bill specifically amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 290.06, concerning income tax rates for individuals, estates, and trusts. With the new structure, those earning above a certain threshold will be taxed at a higher rate, allowing the state to capture necessary funds to maintain its Medicaid program amidst potential federal reductions. The implications of this change are significant for high-income households who will face increased tax liability, while the vast majority of Minnesota taxpayers may not see any change in their tax rates.

Summary

House File 2591 aims to establish a fifth tier in the individual income tax structure of Minnesota. This new tax tier is proposed as a means to offset anticipated federal Medicaid funding losses. The bill includes provisions to adjust existing income tax brackets, ensuring that the new tier does not affect the lower brackets but adds an additional tax rate targeting higher-income earners. The expected outcome is to generate revenue to cover the shortfall in Medicaid funding due to changes in federal policies and budgetary actions taken by the state government.

Contention

The primary points of contention revolve around the bill's necessity and its potential impact on residents. Proponents argue that establishing this additional tax tier is essential for maintaining critical health services that are at risk due to federal cuts. They assert that without this measure, many low-income residents could suffer from reduced access to healthcare. Conversely, opponents of HF2591 may argue that increasing tax burdens on higher earners could drive them out of the state or create disincentives for economic investment. This debate reflects broader ideological divides regarding taxation and government spending in Minnesota.