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Dear Neighbors,

This week, House Democrats blocked an assault on public transit projects right in our community from Republicans on the House Floor.  

We voted down Republican-led legislation to delay light rail transit capital projects, including the proposed Blue Line from Brooklyn Park to Minneapolis. This is a local project that is community-driven and will be paid for by Hennepin County; no state funds will be used to build the Blue Line Extension. 

So many Minnesotans rely on public transportation to get to work, buy groceries, or visit friends and families. They've worked hard for this project, and the last thing they need is people from another community pulling the rug from under them. This project not only strengthens our local economy but also ensures that every Minnesotan—regardless of income or background—has the opportunity to thrive and stay connected to their communities.

As long as I am in office, I will ensure our community has more transit options - not less.






Vang1





Child Tax Credit and Renter’s Credit

Tax Season is in full swing, and there are two key credits to keep in mind as you file this year, both of which were fought for by the DFL last biennium - the Child Tax Credit and recent changes to the Renter’s Credit. I was proud to author the Renter’s Credit law to simplify the process for all Minnesotans. 

Minnesota renters eligible for a property tax refund will now claim their Renter’s Credit on their Minnesota Individual Income Tax return. The Renter’s Credit will be part of their income tax refund amount, and can be applied to the amount owed on their income tax return, or to other debts referred to the Minnesota Department of Revenue. 

Having the Renter’s Credit on the state income tax form will simplify filing for the around 300,000 renters who claim a property tax refund each year. Renters will no longer have to file a separate return and wait until August or September to get their refund. You can learn more about the Renter’s Credit on the Department of Revenue website [ [link removed] ].   

Vang1

To check your eligibility and learn more about Minnesota’s Child Tax Credit, please check out the Minnesota Department of Revenue's website [ [link removed] ]. This is a good resource to have handy when you file your taxes, and remember: if you are eligible for the child tax credit, you must file for it; it is not automatic. Don’t hesitate to reach out to my office if you need help or have questions.

Protecting Children on Social Media 

The evidence is clear that social media is linked with poor mental health outcomes, particularly among children. Last year, the U.S. Surgeon General called for social media platforms to have warning labels [ [link removed] ]. During the 2024 session, we passed legislation requiring social media companies to disclose when they conduct product experiments targeting kids, as well as barring children from working as social media influencers. 

Since then, legislators have met with residents in our community as well as at the Capitol, with organizations like the Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) to discuss their Keep it Digitally Safe (KiDS) Campaign, a global contest inviting parents and kids to submit social media warning label ideas to raise awareness about the risks associated with social media and promote safer online practices.  

You can learn more about the KiDS campaign here [ [link removed] ].

V3

Meeting with Constituents

I always enjoy Youth Day at the Capitol, where I get the privilege to meet with incredible young Minnesotans advocating for change! 

V5

Wednesday was Poultry Day at the Capitol! We discussed how we can best keep domestic birds healthy from bird flu and encourage young Minnesotans to learn about agriculture. Let’s make sure Minnesota retains its #1 spot in turkey production!

V6

Meeting with advocates from HeadStart! They are providing innovative leadership and programs to help children, families, and communities reach their full potential.

V7

Stay in Touch

Please reach out to my office if you need assistance with anything. I am best reached through email at [email protected] or please contact my Legislative Assistant Grace at [email protected]. I always appreciate hearing from you. You can also follow along on my official Facebook page here [ [link removed] ]. 

Sincerely,

Rep. Samantha Vang

651-296-3709

[email protected]








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