Kelliher calls for property tax breaks for seniors
DFL Candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher is calling for tax breaks for some senior citizens caught by rapidly rising property taxes.
Kelliher laid out her agenda for senior citizens in a visit on Monday at Duluth's Rainbow Senior Center.
Kelliher said she wants to limit property tax increases to the rate of inflation for senior citizens who make less than $100,000 individually and for couples with incomes of up to $150,000.
She said senior citizens in Minnesota are having to pay higher costs on fixed incomes.
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"[Seniors are] trying to pay for their groceries and their prescriptions, but the steep property tax increases have limited their ability to stay in their homes, in their neighborhoods, and in the places where people are most comfortable and will be able to thrive," she said.
Kelliher said she'll create a cabinet level position to advise her on the issues, policies and funding concerning Minnesota's aging, elderly, vulnerable and disabled citizens.
"We need to have the focus and coordination of someone who has the ear of the governor to be able to do this, and I am asking for that advice and input," she said.
Protecting seniors from cuts to health care and nursing homes and promoting programs for seniors to mentor in schools and government are other plans Kelliher said she wants to pursue.
Republicans are accusing Kelliher of an election year conversion, saying she cast votes against property tax relief in the Legislature.