Legalized stealing

Sent to representatives Dippel (41B) and Johnson (41A)


Across the country, nine states offer no state income tax, paired with a cost of living that is average or below average (Kiplinger, 2026). These states are increasingly competitive in attracting residents, especially working families and highly skilled professionals.

There is ongoing debate about whether no income tax states simply shift their tax burden into other areas — such as fees, sales taxes, luxury taxes, or property taxes — to compensate. Regardless of where one stands on that theory, one fact is becoming increasingly clear: Minnesota’s overall cost of living is no longer sustainable for low income and lower middle income families. The data show that households in the 22% federal tax bracket (married filing jointly) are being squeezed the hardest.


Other states have recognized that attracting and retaining highly skilled workers reduces long term reliance on social welfare systems and strengthens economic mobility. Minnesota, however, has not demonstrated the same commitment to helping individuals advance into higher income brackets. Instead, the current structure appears to increase dependence on state systems and concentrate influence among those already in positions of power. Minnesota must confront this reality. Without meaningful reform, the state risks losing both its workforce and its competitive edge.


Helpful references:

MN Migration Trends and patterns: https://mn.gov/admin/assets/Migration%20Report_FINAL_tcm36-620018.pdf

https://www.americanexperiment.org/minnesota-loses-residents-of-all-age-groups-and-incomes-over-25000-annually-to-other-parts-of-the-country/

The government collects state and federal income taxes and then also expects American taxpayers to pay a recurring tax on our homes! It’s outrageous and it’s time that this overtaxed government system ends!