Dear Neighbors,
The 2024 Legislative Session started this week. It's amazing to be back, to be part of this collective effort to make tangible differences in the lives of all Minnesotans. After the historically productive 2023 Legislative Session, DFLers remain committed to improving people’s lives and building a Minnesota that works better for everyone. In 2024, House DFL lawmakers will continue working side by side with neighbors and community members together – rooted in the values we all share – to lower the cost of living, deliver economic security for working families, and ensure everyone has the tools they need to thrive.
As we navigate the challenges ahead, this shared purpose is what fuels our drive and keeps us motivated. This week has been a powerful reminder of the collective good we achieve when we work together, and I'm excited to see what the rest of the year holds.
Thank you for the great honor of serving our vibrant community.
Global Minnesota Visit
On Tuesday, I had the inspiring opportunity to connect with young European politicians alongside Global Minnesota and Republican Minority Leader Lisa Demuth. Together, we engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about leadership, democracy, and the path to candidacy. I am grateful for the chance to foster these connections and create a space for learning and exchange with this promising generation of future leaders. My thanks to Global Minnesota, the engaged students, and Representative Demuth for making this event possible.
Virtual Town Hall Event
We're excited to invite you to our next virtual town hall meeting on Thursday, February 22 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CT. Join Rep. Athena Hollins, Senator Clare Oumou Verbeten, and me as we preview key issues and priorities for the upcoming Legislative Session.
WHAT: District 66 Town Hall meeting
WHEN: Thursday, February 22 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
WHO: Rep. Athena Hollins (DFL-Saint Paul), Rep. Leigh Finke (DFL-Saint Paul), and Senator Clare Oumou Verbeten (DFL-66)
WHERE: To receive the Zoom link, attendees will need to register here.
2024 Queer Legislators Caucus Priorities
Last year, we declared Minnesota a Trans Refuge State, created a Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, passed the Take Pride Act, secured funding for HIV services and resources, ensured grants for single-stall restrooms across the state, and more! Building on 2023's successes, we will focus on implementation and partnerships to ensure accountability, accessibility, and tangible improvements for a more inclusive and equitable Minnesota, where every family thrives regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or background. The opportunity before us includes families of all kinds, encompassing the diverse tapestry that strengthens our state. It's time for policies that reflect this reality, safeguarding children and guaranteeing dignity and respect for all families.
Episcopal Homes of Minnesota
I had a tremendous time speaking to constituents at the Episcopal Homes of Minnesota. It meant a lot to me to have the chance to engage with nursing home providers and residents in my district. Last year, Minnesota nursing homes received the first portion of a significant amount of new state funding as part of a bipartisan agreement reached during the 2023 session. In addition to the $173 million in one-time funding that nursing homes received, the same facilities will receive another $225,000 each on Aug. 1, 2024, with the remainder distributed in one-time funding based on the number of active nursing facility beds.
More than 300 facilities with more than 24,000 active beds are benefiting from the new state funding. Our elders have made countless contributions to our society, and we must care for them in their golden years.
Child Tax Credit
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. 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.
Visit the Minnesota Department of Revenue website for more information.
Electric Vehicle Rebates
Last session DFLers passed an Electric Vehicle Rebate Program allowing residents to receive a rebate of up to $2,500 for a new EV purchase and $600 for a used purchase. Electric cars, plug-ins or hybrids purchased or leased on or after May 25, 2023, are eligible. Applications are now live, and you can find more information at https://mn.gov/evrebates.
Stay connected
Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so call or email any time. You can follow my new Facebook page or contact my office.
It’s an honor to represent our community in the Minnesota House.
Sincerely,
Leigh Finke
State Representative – 66A
Committee Assignments:
Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy
Human Services Policy
Judiciary Finance and Civil Law
Legacy Finance
Legislative Assistant
Robin Mercer-Taylor
robin.mercer-taylor@house.mn.gov