Legislative Update – February 16, 2024
Dear Neighbors,
The 2024 Legislative Session has officially begun! I am glad to be back in Saint Paul working on legislation that will improve the lives of Minnesotan families and advocating for the needs of the communities in our district!
It has been heartening to see constituents already out at the Capitol making their voices heard on important issues like the Equal Rights Amendment and Prove It First environmental protections.
Climate and Energy Committee
On Wednesday, the Climate and Energy Committee, which I chair, had our first meeting of the year.
In 2023, we passed the most comprehensive investment in clean energy programs in state history. Yesterday, we had staff from the Department of Commerce walk the committee through the implementation of programs like the State Competitiveness Fund, electric vehicle rebates, Solar for Schools, and more. You can watch the committee hearing here, and you can learn more about various programs on the Department of Commerce’s New Energy Programs page.
This year, I am dedicated to ensuring that the programs we implemented last year are working efficiently and as intended. We will continue to hear legislation to lower energy prices for working families across our state. I will keep you updated on our committee’s hearings as the year progresses.
File for the Child Tax Credit
Nearly 300,000 Minnesota households are eligible for the nation-leading Child Tax Credit the DFL passed last year! With our Child Tax Credit, 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.
Minnesota families: If you qualify, file your taxes to make sure you claim the benefits available to you. More information, including qualification criteria, is available here: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit
Insulin Prices Capped
Democrats are dedicated to reducing the cost of health care and protecting against price-gouging. Earlier this month, Attorney General Keith Ellison announced a landmark settlement with the Eli Lily insulin company that caps insulin at just $35 for the next 5 years.
Drug companies raised the price of insulin by over 1,100% between 1990 and 2020, and this settlement ensures that Minnesotans can afford their lives and live with dignity, safety, and respect.
You can learn more about the settlement and how to get insulin for just $35 a month here: https://www.ag.state.mn.us/MNinsulin35/.
Staying in touch
Please reach out if you have any questions or feedback you would like to share. You can contact me by email at rep.patty.acomb@house.mn.gov or call (651) 296-9934.
Sincerely,
Patty Acomb
State Representative