MN Government Updates 09.22

Revenue Commissioner to Depart Walz Administration

Governor Tim Walz today announced the departure of Cynthia Bauerly, the longest-serving Department of Revenue Commissioner in Minnesota history.

The governor today thanked Commissioner Bauerly for her years of service to Minnesota and announced an open, competitive hiring process.

“Commissioner Bauerly puts everyday Minnesotans first,” Governor Walz said. “Even when wading through complicated tax laws, Commissioner Bauerly sees the big picture, leads with her values, and prioritizes the needs of Minnesota children, families, and small businesses. We are sad to see her go, and we are committed to finding someone with this same commitment to servant leadership.”

“I am grateful to Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan for the opportunity to serve in their Administration as we worked to expand engagement to communities across the state of Minnesota; ensured that Minnesotans have access to the financial opportunities in the tax code; and continued to provide the revenue to support education, infrastructure, and vital services to Minnesotans,” said Commissioner Bauerly. "It has been an honor and privilege to lead the department for the past six years. I am confident in the executive team, division leadership, and the employees of the Minnesota Department of Revenue. They are dedicated, and talented public servants who will continue their steadfast work on behalf of all Minnesotans each day."  

Commissioner Bauerly was appointed by Governor Mark Dayton in January of 2015 and Governor Tim Walz in January of 2019. Commissioner Bauerly’s last official day is Friday, October 9. Deputy Commissioner Lee Ho will serve as Temporary Commissioner until the Governor appoints a new Commissioner. The Minnesota Department of Revenue manages the state’s revenue system and administers state tax laws. The department manages over 30 different taxes and collects over $25.2 billion annually.

Minnesota Leads Nation in Census Response

According to a report from NBC News, the state of Minnesota leads the nation in the response rate to the 2020 Census. Minnesota’s response rate is 74.6%.

The results from the Census determine the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and the number of votes the state has in the Electoral College. Currently, Minnesota has eight congressional seats and ten electoral votes. However, the state is on the cusp of potentially losing a U.S. House seat based on stronger population growth in states like Texas, Florida, Arizona, Colorado, Montana, North Carolina, and Oregon. State officials hope that the $3.1 million set aside for Census response efforts will allow the state to retain its eight congressional seats.

The number of congressional seats a state has also impacts the amount of federal money it receives. Currently, Minnesota gets about $15 billion annually in federal resources to pay for programs related to schools, transportation, healthcare, and food assistance.

The Census Bureau is currently scheduled to report the new number of congressional seats for each state for the 2022 election by December 31 of this year. However, Congress is debating extending that deadline due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amos A. Briggs | Government Relations
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