Greetings Eastsiders! I hope this email finds you well and enjoying the start of March. It’s been a busy few weeks, so let’s get right to it. Here’s an update from the State Capitol: 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.  Child Tax Credit ReminderIf you haven’t filed your 2023 taxes yet, don’t forget about claiming the new Minnesota Child Tax Credit! This is available to all Minnesotans, including those who file with ITIN numbers. If you have questions or need help, don’t hesitate to contact my office.    Grants and Low-Interest Loans Available Through the Promise ActLast session, I fought alongside House Economic Development Chair Hassan to pass the Promise Act in the Minnesota House, investing millions into our communities’ small businesses. This grant and low-interest loan program is highly accessible to small businesses on the Eastside. The program also allocates around $30 million in grants and low-interest loans to be awarded over the next two years across eligible areas of the state. I plan to hold more community outreach events on these new initiatives as the funds roll out this year- stay tuned for more information! Learn more and get ready for applications to open at https://mnpromiseact.org. Minnesota’s Presidential PrimaryMinnesota’s Presidential Primary is coming up on Tuesday, March 5 for our major political parties, and early voting is already open. Learn more, including your polling location, from the Secretary of State’s website. PACT Act and your VA Benefits The PACT Act is a new federal 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 CommunityI had a wonderful chat with some of the youth from our Eastside earlier this week, and they shared some great insights on how we can better support young people to get into good colleges and careers. I'm excited to work with them and help make a positive impact in their lives.  Eastsiders advocating for housing, climate action and environmental justice. Thank you neighbors Gaye and Mary for your leadership the last two years. Your voice is heard. Your voice matters. You make a positive difference.  I recently met with one of our own Eastside ISAIAH leaders, Suleiman Ahmed and fellow community leaders, advocating for housing. Thank you to our Eastsiders for sharing your stories and uplifting the many voices from our district!  It’s always rewarding to hear from our Eastside neighbors about the work they have done and will do for our district! Thank you Stephen Moore, Fatima Moore, Maryanne Quiroz, and Reverend Carl Johnson for your leadership and support of our neighbors. #EastSidePride  Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4201 if I can provide assistance! Your question and input are important to me. Thank you for the honor of representing our Eastside community at the Minnesota House. Have a great weekend! In solidarity, Jay Xiong
State Representative |