The 2024 Legislative Session started this week. It's amazing to be back and to be part of this collective effort to make tangible differences in the lives of all Minnesotans. After the historically productive 2023 Legislative Session, DFLers remain committed to improving people’s lives and building a Minnesota that works better for everyone. In 2024, House DFL lawmakers will continue working side by side with neighbors and community members together – rooted in the values we all share – to lower the cost of living, deliver economic security for working families, and ensure everyone has the tools they need to thrive.
As we navigate the challenges ahead, this shared purpose is what fuels our drive and keeps us motivated. This week has been a powerful reminder of the collective good we achieve when we work together, and I'm excited to see what the rest of the year holds.
Thank you for the great honor of serving our vibrant community.
Symposium on Voting Rights: Our Past, Our Present, Our Future
It was an honor to start Black History Month by speaking at the Symposium on Voting Rights: Our Past, Our Present, Our Future. As Co-Chair of the Inclusive Democracy Caucus, I am committed to working toward a Minnesota where every resident feels empowered to engage in the democratic process.
In a state as diverse as Minnesota, a strong, reflective democracy is crucial. It ensures all voices are heard and represented, leading to more just and equitable policies. When diverse perspectives are included in decision-making, we create policies that better reflect the needs of the whole community, not just a select few.
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. I am proud of our nation-leading Child Tax Credit providing Minnesota families with much-needed relief. Families will save up to $1,750 for each dependent. Democrats are cutting child poverty by one-third with this rebate. You can claim the tax credit by filing a 2023 income tax return. The $1,750 credit is for each child 17 years old and younger, with no limit on the number of children.
Visit the Minnesota Department of Revenue website for more information.
Last session DFLers passed an Electric Vehicle Rebate Program allowing residents to receive a rebate of up to $2,500 for a new EV purchase and $600 for a used purchase. Electric cars, plug-ins or hybrids purchased or leased on or after May 25, 2023, are eligible. Applications are now live, and you can find more information at https://mn.gov/evrebates.
Minnesota residents can now apply for fall 2024 Lawns to Legumes funding. The Lawns to Legumes program aims to increase habitat for at-risk pollinators in residential settings across the state by providing people with cost-share funding, workshops, coaching and gardening resources.
Anyone can apply to be reimbursed for up to $400 in costs associated with establishing new pollinator habitat in their yards. Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2024. If you previously applied for the program, you would need to reapply to be considered for fall 2024 funding. Find more information here.
Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at [email protected] or 651-296-4255. You can also follow my official Facebook page and the People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus page.
Minnesota House of Representatives
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