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Greetings Eastsiders,
I hope you?re having a good February and are enjoying more sunlight each day. I want to start this week?s update with some timely information about a new child tax rebate you may be eligible for that is estimated to deliver a refund of an average of $1,200 per eligible child and to reach over 300,000 families across the state.
 New Child Tax Credit in Minnesota
Last session, DFLers in the Minnesota legislature passed a new child tax credit. Working families have been asking us to help lower costs; this is one strategy we?ve enacted to put money back in Minnesotans' pockets at a time when everything's pricier. The tax rebate will average around $1,200 per eligible child and is estimated to reach over 300,000 families.
 For all tax filers, this credit begins to phase out at an income level of $35,000 and fully phases out at a maximum of $90,750 for a family with four children. Check out if you're eligible here: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit
Free Tax Preparation Sites
Most taxpayers who are eligible to claim the new Child Tax Credit are also eligible for free tax preparation assistance. Currently, over 170 sites offering free tax preparation assistance are now open to help those filing income tax and property tax refund returns. Sites are staffed by certified volunteers and offer in-person and virtual options with most being open through April 15. You can find income requirements and qualifications for free tax preparation on the Child Tax Credit webpage.?
Session Begins February 12
The 2024 legislative session is just around the corner and we?re scheduled to gavel in on Monday, February 12th at noon. I?m looking forward to another productive legislative session and there?s a lot to do in the second year of a biennium.?
 High on the to-do list is passing a strong capital investment/jobs and infrastructure package. As a member serving on the House Capital Investment Committee and having had the opportunity to tour the state, I?ve seen firsthand how these direct, bipartisan investments DFLers delivered last year are positively impacting local communities and the people living and working there. The best way to grow our economy is by growing the middle class, and passing a robust jobs and infrastructure package can help us build a stronger state.
Committee Work
Going hand in hand with passing a strong jobs and infrastructure bill is continuing the work to address workforce challenges across the state. Affordable childcare is a critical component that needs to be a part of this conversation. This week, we held a Joint House Workforce Development and Economic Development hearing in Mankato. The committees discussed the relationship between higher education, workforce and economic development, and the economic impact of childcare in Minnesota. We heard testimonies from DEED and local leaders about how our legislation continues to help the local economy and workforce thrive. Thank you to Vice Chair Jeff Brand, Rep. Luke Frederick, former Rep. Jack Considine and former Congressman Tim Penny for welcoming our staff and members to their home districts.
 At the end of January, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek and Governmental Director Darielle Dannen joined me for dinner at our local Eastside eatery Cups & Cheers to discuss the funding and programs we passed last year and the work ahead for our state's economy.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to contact me anytime at [email protected] or 651-296-4201 with questions or if you need help. It?s an honor to represent our Eastside neighbors at the State Capitol.?
In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative?
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