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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jeff Brand (DFL)

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BRAND NEWS with Rep. Jeff Brand

Friday, March 1, 2024

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Friends and neighbors,

While Mother Nature spent the week waffling between winter and spring, we spent the week working hard for Minnesotans. This week on BRAND NEWS, the February budget forecast, local government aid, and my legislative survey! 

 

For this week's episode of BRAND NEWS, click here

WATCH BRAND NEWS

Here’s the latest as we head into March. 

Honoring Fallen First Responders 

Earlier this week, a public memorial for the three fallen Burnsville First Responders, Paul Elmstrand, Matthew Ruge and Adam Finseth, was held in Eden Prairie. I watched on TV with a heavy heart. My heart goes out to their friends, families, and Burnsville community as they grieve this heart wrenching loss.  

To all of our officers here at home who keep us safe – thank you for your service.

 

Budget Forecast Shows Minnesota is on the Right Path 

On Thursday, state budget officials released a new economic forecast showing Minnesota’s economy is growing and our long-term budget outlook is stable. We are also in a strong position to weather unforeseen challenges down the road.  

Corporate profits are soaring, but many working families still face challenges. Our historic 2023 budget began to tackle the rising cost of childcare, health care, and housing. Throughout the 2024 session, House DFL lawmakers will continue working with our neighbors and community members – rooted in the values we all share – to lower the cost of living and deliver economic security for working families.  

We are growing the middle class through jobs with good pay, benefits, and working conditions so Minnesotans can build better lives. Our economic outlook is a testament to the strength and resiliency of Minnesotans, and we will continue to manage our state’s finances in an effective, responsible manner while being responsive to challenges facing people and communities across the state. 

 

Legislation to Lower Energy Rates 

This week, my bill to exempt energy transmission equipment from property taxes was heard in the Taxes Committee. This would affect approximately 50 electric coops across the state, including BENCO in our region. If passed, it would save around $118,000 in charges to ratepayers. This legislation has bipartisan support, and I’m looking forward to carrying it all the way across the finish line.  

 

MPCA Small Business Environmental Loan Program 

If your small business is looking to reduce on-site air emissions, clean up contamination, or generate less waste be sure to apply for the MPCA Small Business Environmental Loan program. The program offers zero-interest loans up to $75,000 to tackle these high-impact projects. You can learn more and apply here.  

MPCA Loans

 

Take my Legislative Survey 

One of the best tools I have in setting my legislative priorities is YOU!  

Take my legislative survey to make your voice heard. Submissions are open now through May 1, 2024. 

TAKE THE SURVEY

BRAND

 

Stay in Touch 

As always, I want to hear from you. Get in touch by calling 651-296-8634 to reach me, or email rep.jeff.brand@house.mn.gov. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram for the latest.  

Stay warm out there.  

 

In solidarity,  

Representative Jeff Brand 

Minnesota House of Representatives 

State Representative Jeff Brand

501 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155

Phone: 651-296-8634
Email: rep.jeff.brand@house.mn.gov (replies to this newsletter are not monitored)
Website
Facebook: Representative Jeff Brand
Legislative Assistant: Faith Privett, 651-297-8145

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