Dear Neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who attended our Town Hall last week! We discussed our priorities this session, specific pieces of legislation, and how we can make Minnesota the best place to live, work, and raise a family.
Here is an update from St. Paul.
Protecting Consumers from Junk Fees
This week, the Commerce Committee approved my legislation to ban junk fees. Junk fees include charges that corporations use at the end of a transaction, such as convenience and processing fees — which can cost Americans tens of billions of dollars annually. Consumer Reports estimate the average family of four loses more than $3,200 per year to junk fees, and much more if they make a significant purchase such as a car. Utilities, cell phone bills, cable bills, rent, student fees, and more are all subject to junk fees.
Junk fees are often an underhanded way for corporations in Minnesota to hike prices and conceal the true cost of their product or service for families, in a time when many families are struggling to meet basic needs. These fees allow companies to show a lower dollar amount at the start of a sale, but by the time you’re ready to pay, they’ve added so many unexplainable fees that the final cost can be almost twice as much as the original number. My bill would give consumers a clear, up-front understanding of an item’s true cost and allow them to make informed decisions about the products and services they choose.
You can view the bill hearing here.
Bonding Tour Visits 63B
Last week, the Bonding Committee took a visit to our very own district 63B to attend the Minnesota Veterans Home - Minneapolis’ presentation for the design and construction of a remodel of the building.
This investment would include the replacement of the HVAC plant and heating & cooling distribution system & to address building system components categorized as 'Crisis' or 'Poor' during Facility Condition Assessments (FCAs). These include re-placing plumbing systems and fixtures, door hardware, roofing, windows, modification of the nurse's station and conversion of lighting to energy-efficient LED.
House Approves 101 Environmental Projects
Minnesotans take pride in our legacy of environmental stewardship. That’s why the House DFL passed legislation to fund 101 projects across our state that protect our wildlife, water, air, and soil.
The funding, which comes from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, uses a portion of our state lottery proceeds to ensure our environment and natural resources are protected for generations to come.
Federal Assistance for Small Businesses Affected by Warm Winter
The 2023-2024 Minnesota winter has provided us with a historically warm period. While many have enjoyed foregoing their warmest coats this year, snowy winters are essential to the success of Minnesota’s winter tourism and outdoor recreation industries. They are also how so many Minnesotans make a living with snow services.
Affected small businesses can now apply for federal assistance to help keep them on their feet. You can apply here.
Stay in Touch
Thank you for your time, energy, and all you do to make our community a great place for everyone.
Please reach out and let us know about events and meetings you’d like me to attend. And always reach out to me with your input and ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance. My email is rep.emma.greenman@house.mn.gov or you are always welcome to call me at the Capitol at 651-296-4200 and follow my Facebook page for updates.
It’s an honor and a privilege to be your State Representative. I'm very proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish together and look forward to the work we have ahead of us. Together we can create a stronger, brighter future for all Minnesotans!
Best,
Emma Greenman
State Representative