Legislative Update- February 27, 2024

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this email finds you well! It’s hard to believe we’re approaching the end of February. If you haven’t had a chance yet to fill out our district survey, it’s still open and I’d be grateful for your input!

Here’s an update from the Capitol in addition to some resources you may find useful:

The 2024 legislative session got underway on February 12 and we’ve picked up right where we left off from last session. Our first order of business was to pass the bipartisan tax fix bill for the 2023 Tax Act to ensure all Minnesotans receive the tax return they’re entitled to. The biggest change from last year’s bill was updating how we account for inflation, and the adjustment will save Minnesotans around $300 million dollars as they file 2023 taxes.  

It's always rewarding to share this space with students interested in democracy and the MN House operations.

Legislation Update

I recently had the honor of presenting legislation I’m carrying to the Transportation Committee that would memorialize Michael Gau, a beloved employee of the Minnesota Department of Transportation who was killed in a highway work zone incident in our community in 2023.

My bill designates the Rockford Road bridge over Highway 169 in Plymouth to be renamed “Michael Gau Memorial Bridge.”

Child Tax Credit

In 2023, the Minnesota legislature enacted a nation-leading child tax credit projected to reduce childhood poverty by 1/3! The $1,750 credit is for each child 17 years old and younger, with no limit on the number of children. This is a refundable credit, so you may be eligible for a refund even if you do not owe tax, but you need to file a 2023 income tax return to receive it. More details are available from the Minnesota Department of Revenue.

Minnesota’s Presidential Primary

Early voting is now open for Minnesota’s Presidential Primary, which takes place on March 5. Only major parties participate and regardless of who you’re voting for, it’s an opportunity to make your voice heard in our shared democracy. Learn more, including your polling location, from the Secretary of State’s website.

Insulin Capped at $35

In 2020, we passed the Alec Smith Emergency Insulin Act to provide emergency insulin and cap the price of a longer-term supply, but implementation was caught up in litigation from the pharmaceutical companies. In 2023, we limited co-pays for prescription drugs and supplies, including insulin pens and pumps. Several weeks ago, Attorney General Keith Ellison announced a landmark settlement that caps the cost of insulin at just $35; learn more here. All of these efforts are helping more Minnesotans to better afford the health, safety, and dignity that they deserve.

PACT Act and Update to VA Benefits 

The PACT Act is a new law expanding VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This law helps the VA provide generations of Veterans and their survivors with the care and benefits they have earned and deserve. You can learn more about the PACT Act and how to file a claim, by clicking here.

Connected to Community

It was great to have constituents with Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative gather at the Capitol to rally for affordable housing! I am grateful they could take time out of their day to visit with me about strategies we can use to help get more people into affordable housing.

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime at rep.ginny.klevorn@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5511 to share input, ideas, or questions. I’m always happy to help when I can! You’re also welcome to follow me on my Facebook page for more updates.

Thank you for the honor of serving our Plymouth and Medicine Lake residents and families in the Minnesota House.

Sincerely,

Ginny Klevorn
State Representative