Dear Neighbors,
I hope you had a peaceful, joyful, and meaningful Eid al-Fitr. I had the great honor of hosting a Iftar dinner for my colleagues and community leaders in commemoration.
Justus Ramsey Stone House
Last week I held a press conference with local leaders and community advocates to address the historical preservation efforts of the Justus Ramsey House through my bill, HF 3517, which would allocate funding for the relocation of the Justus Ramsey Stone House.
The Justus Ramsey Stone House is a symbol of St. Paul’s diverse cultural heritage. The relocation of the house would mark a significant step in preserving local history and showcasing the stories of the communities that have contributed to the city’s identity.
Articles:
CBS News
Pioneer Press
Bill Packages Passed off the House Floor
We are halfway through the 2024 Legislative Session, and the House is now focused on passing policy bill packages in major areas, as well as putting together small supplemental budgets to continue our work improving the lives of Minnesotans.
Here is what we have accomplished thus far.
- House Higher Education policy bill, HF 4024, is a focused effort to build off the historic investments included in the 2023 Higher Education Budget, like the North Star Promise which provides free college to qualifying students.
- HF 3436, the House Transportation policy bill builds off of last year’s historic budget that capitalized on state and federal funds to deliver a generational investment in transportation statewide. We also passed HF 3071, which will ensure that drivers’ tests in Minnesota will be in plain English – a very helpful simplification for new drivers.
- HF 4176, the House Early Education Policy bill streamlines existing programs for young learners and ensures greater access to early education for students and families in St. Paul.
- HF 3454, the Military Affairs Policy bill, and HF 4334, the Veterans Affairs Policy bill. The Military Affairs bill includes referral bonuses for the National Guard, adjustments to help the National Guard investigate and prosecute crime, and language to broaden the definition of trespassing on National Guard facilities.
By strengthening transportation options, educational resources for families, and support systems for our veterans, we're laying the groundwork for a thriving state. Affordable and reliable transportation helps parents get their kids to school activities and parents to work opportunities. Accessible and quality education provides children with the tools they need to succeed and be ready to contribute to vibrant communities. These bills continue to make Minnesota a place where families and veterans can thrive.
- HF 3631, a package of modifications and extensions for previously authorized Capital Investment projects. The legislation mostly relates to the two Capital Investment bills signed into law last year.
- The 2024 Elections Policy Bill focuses on improved voter access and election transparency. It targets policy areas where the state can improve voter turnout and ensure that if voting is restricted, voters have a means of redress. Additionally, it enhances disclosure requirements for those seeking to influence elections, expands voter access and comprehension, and increases election transparency.
- HF 3614, the Public Safety Policy bill, continues House Democrats’ comprehensive approach to public safety and crime prevention with support for victims, criminal justice reform, policy modernization, and more.
Tax Reminder
Property Tax Refund: DFLers worked diligently to ensure Minnesota families have access to the tax credits and deductions they've earned, strengthening their financial foundation. We worked to simplify the Property Tax Refund, making sure every renter will receive the refund they deserve, one third of whom are seniors or people with disabilities. You may qualify for the $204 average refund.
Renter's Credit: I encourage you to explore this program and see if it can offer you valuable tax savings. The Renters’ Credit refunds a portion of the property taxes that renters have paid through their rents. The credit is particularly targeted to the state’s lowest-income households; over 60 percent of households receiving the credit have incomes of $40,000 or less. The maximum household income to qualify for the Renters’ Credit for the 2021 tax year was $64,920. By providing property tax refunds to qualifying homeowners and renters, the state of Minnesota helps bring down one of the costs of housing and creates a more equitable tax system.
Child Tax Credit: I am proud of our nation-leading Child Tax Credit providing Minnesota families with much-needed relief. 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. For all tax filers, this credit begins to phase out at an income level of $35,000 and fully phases out at a maximum of $90,750 for a family with four children.
Visit the Minnesota Department of Revenue website for more information on these benefits.
Grant Opportunities
The 2024 Neighborhood STAR and Cultural STAR grant applications are now open!
- Neighborhood STAR funds capital projects in Saint Paul neighborhoods. Learn more: stpaul.gov/nstar
- Cultural STAR offers grants for arts and cultural programming and organizations within Saint Paul. Details: stpaul.gov/cultural-star
Online applications for both programs are due Wednesday, May 15 at 4 p.m.
Keep in Touch
Please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime with input, or questions, or to let me know how I can be of assistance at rep.samakab.hussein@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5158. Be sure to ‘like’ and follow my new Facebook page.
Thank you for the honor of serving our community.
Sincerely,
Rep. Samakab Hussein
Committee Assignments:
Vice Chair Legacy Finance
Capital Investment
Housing Finance and Policy
Labor and Industry Finance and Policy
Legislative Assistant
Jacob Hooper
jacob.hooper@house.mn.gov
651-296-9467