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June Consumer Alerts Newsletter |
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Minnesota's Home Energy Rebates public engagement opportunities
The Minnesota Department of Commerce is hosting six in-person public forums for the public and interested stakeholders to inform the design of Minnesota’s Home Energy Rebate (HER) programs. These forums aim to gather local perspectives, insights, and priorities from those who will benefit from the program, with a particular focus on ensuring inclusivity and reaching populations often underrepresented in decision-making processes. These are open to all Minnesota residents, especially those with an interest in energy efficiency or who work in the energy efficiency sector, including utilities and contractor workforce; non-profits, community-based organizations and advocacy groups; and renters, homeowners, and landlords.
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Mankato, July 16, 2024, 6-8 PM, at May Clinic Health System Event Center.
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Minneapolis, July 17, 2024, 6-8 PM, Location TBD.
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St. Cloud, July 18, 2024, 6-8 PM, at Atwood Memorial Center.
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Fergus Falls, July 23, 2024, 6-8 PM, at Fergus Falls Public Library.
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Bemidji, July 24, 2024, 6-8 PM, Location TBD.
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Duluth, July 25, 2024, 6-8 PM, Location TBD.
Gender affirming care coverage
Did you know that in the 2024 session the Legislature passed a law (Minn. Stat. § 62Q.585) reiterating that gender affirming care coverage is required under Minnesota law. Last November, the Minnesota Department of Commerce issued a joint bulletin with the Departments of Human Rights, Human Services and Health reaffirming access to gender affirming health care services for Minnesotans. The bulletin also required health carriers to submit an attestation that they provide the required coverage. You can learn more and read the full bulletin on the Commerce website.
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 Wildfire season is here
While the recent rain throughout Minnesota has ended the drought, it's important to remember that the state still has wildfire risks. Below are three actions you can take to be aware of wildfire risks.
Be prepared! Here is info about wildfire risks in Minnesota, campfire safety, and how to make your home "firewise" from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wildland fire information.
Be alert! Sign up for wildfire alerts in your area through the National Weather Service Wireless Emergency Alerts. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) will send out location-based notifications that you don’t need to sign up for.
Be covered! What insurance would you have if your home or other property were damaged or destroyed by fire? Learn more about actual cash value vs. replacement costs.
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 Do you have a personal goal you’re working toward?
Maybe it’s buying a car, starting a business, purchasing a home, saving for college, or investing in your retirement. Whatever your goal is, you need a plan to make it happen.
It might seem overwhelming at first, but much like physical fitness, you can improve your financial strength by taking small steps one day at a time.
Some of those steps could be creating a spending and saving plan, improving your credit score, opening a bank account or finding a trusted advisor.
Not sure where to start? Find out how the MN Department of Commerce can help you.
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Homebuyer Education Course
Join us this Saturday, June 29 to learn more about opportunities to buy a home. The Minnesota Department of Commerce’s Office of Community Engagement and Equity Projects is partnering with Minneapolis-based Project for Pride in Living and Northside Achievement Zone during a homebuyer education course. The Minnesota Department of Commerce will be sharing resources during the lunch period, beginning around 11 AM.
June 29, 2024
9 AM – 5 PM
Northside Achievement Zone
1964 N 2nd Street
Minneapolis, MN
This is a free event.
Learn more here.
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Join us for the Imagine Series by Frogtown and Rondo
The Minnesota Department of Commerce is excited to attend another year at Imagine by Open Streets in the Frogtown Rondo community on July 14. The Imagine series are big, family-friendly block parties aimed at neighborhood connection and community organization. It’s an excellent opportunity for Commerce to engage with the public, share valuable information, and listen to community needs that guide our strategic priorities.
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Commerce In the News
Attorney General Ellison charges five with stealing more than $10M in two Medicaid fraud prosecutions
Three charged with more than $9M in fraud as part of Office’s largest-ever prosecution; two others charged with $1.4M in fraud in connection with separate, multi-year prosecution. Allegations include false documentation, overbilling, billing for services not provided, kickbacks, and diversion of funds for personal uses, among others.
“By charging and holding these fraudsters accountable, we are protecting both Minnesotans and safeguarding the integrity of our systems. Our efforts send a clear message that fraudulent activities will not be tolerated and they will be met with serious consequences,” said Tony Ofstead, Minnesota Department of Commerce Fraud Bureau Director.
Learn more and see the full press release
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MinnesotaCare monthly premiums payment to begin June 2023
If you are insured under MinnesotaCare watch your mail for a bill from the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Enrollees must pay their premium by the due date to avoid losing their coverage. The first bill was due June 13, 2024.
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