Dear Neighbors,
Long nights are common at the Capitol (we were on the floor until midnight last night), as we continue our work to improve the lives of all Minnesotans. Here’s an update from the Capitol:
It was my honor to join Edina and Plymouth community members, and my friend Ramla for an Eid breakfast. I also had great conversations about child advocacy and literacy at the Capitol!
House Floor Votes
The House has begun passing policy bill packages in major issue areas building on the work of our historically productive 2023 session and improving the lives of Minnesotans. So far the House has passed:
- A?public safety package?that passed unanimously and includes bipartisan provisions that protect victim-survivors and make our system more just.
- A labor policy bill that includes provisions to strengthen the minimum wage, ban shadow non-competes, and increase pay transparency.
- A K-12 education policy bill that prioritizes policies to improve the experiences of students in Minnesota schools while also making sure the state is measuring and holding schools accountable for meaningful academic outcomes.
- A Elections policy bill, which focuses on improved voter access and election transparency. It targets policy areas where the state can improve voter turnout and ensure that voters can push back on voting restrictions.
Standing up for Consumers
The DFL also passed legislation to crack down on junk fees to ensure consumers have fair, upfront pricing for event tickets, restaurant meals, hotels, credit cards, and more. I was proud to vote for both of these bills to protect Minnesotan consumers against unfair business practices.
Tax Day is April 15
Tax Day is Monday! Last year, DFLers made big moves to help working families, and you’ll feel some of the benefits this year as you file your 2023 taxes.
If you’re a renter, don't forget to claim your property tax refund. This is the first year renters will be able to receive their Renter’s Credit with their tax filing rather than later in the year. Along with making it simpler and more convenient, we also expanded the credit to many Minnesotans who didn’t qualify previously.
This year, nearly 300,000 Minnesota households are eligible for the nation-leading Child Tax Credit! 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.
Stay in Touch
Please reach out to me anytime at rep.heather.edelson@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4363 with your input or questions. You’re also welcome to follow me or ‘like’ my official Facebook page for additional updates.
Thank you for the honor of representing our Edina and Bloomington residents and families in the Minnesota House!
Sincerely,
Heather Edelson
State Representative