Legislative Update from Rep. Kari Rehrauer

Friends and neighbors,   

Sending well wishes to all who celebrated Easter or Passover last week, whether that meant family gatherings, traditional meals, or just enjoying some downtime. 

Last week, we had a legislative break before we head into the final leg of session. It was nice to spend some time working at home, where I have the most adorable office-mate! Meet Jhana. I also learned this week that this session, I’ve co-authored more bills than any other member of my caucus! It’s so exciting to be around such brilliant minds doing important work, and I’m proud to be named as a supporter on so many impactful proposals for Minnesotans.  

After last week’s legislative break, we're back in action as the House reconvenes for the final month of the legislative session. From here, our main focus is finalizing and passing budget bills in conference committee with the Senate. This means bringing together different versions from the House and Senate to create something that works for everyone, which is no small task. I’m excited to be carrying the Housing Policy Bill this year, which contains several provisions to address Minnesota’s housing needs, including increasing the eligibility for building safety funds, expanding the use of housing infrastructure bonds, leveraging tax credits for affordable housing, and more. 

Recently, I had a hearing on HF2901, my supportive services bill. This bill would add an eligible use to the housing tax credit, which was created in 2021 to help produce and preserve affordable housing. Currently, with the housing tax credit, folks can donate to affordable housing including new construction, rehabilitation of an existing building, and financing or refinancing and they can get a tax credit of up to 85% of their contribution. My bill would add contributions for supportive services to be eligible as a part of this housing tax credit.   

Fighting for Minnesotans

This week, I joined my fellow legislators, fellow union members, and fellow Minnesotans in front of the Capitol for a press conference to advocate for a state budget that will protect Minnesotans from the destructive cuts happening at the federal level.  

As the Trump administration puts everything from Social Security to public health to Medicare and Medicaid to even Meals on Wheels and Head Start at risk, we need to consider how we may have to raise revenue to protect people through ending such things as special interest tax breaks and closing corporate loopholes. 

More specifically, it has been found that the slashing of Medicaid funding that has been proposed will cost tens of thousands of American lives. 

Congrats to Family Promise!

Earlier this week, I had a fabulous evening helping break ground at the new Family Promise site in Coon Rapids!

With dinner available from White Rabbit and being surrounded by people who care about helping people, I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend my night. Thank you to Family Promise and to all the volunteers, staff, advocates, elected officials, and supporters who made this happen! 

Minnesota Making Progress on Clean Energy

In 2023 and 2024, DFLers made generational investments in a cleaner, cheaper, and more efficient energy system, putting Minnesota on the path to 100% Carbon-Free Energy by 2040.  

The latest Minnesota Energy Factsheet shows our policies are working and our investments are paying off, creating high-paying clean energy jobs, lowering costs for families, and building a greener future: 

? A new record low in carbon emissions, cutting another 4% between 2023 and 2024. 

? Residents and businesses saved more than $307 million in energy costs from the Energy Conservation Optimization (ECO) Act. 

? Minnesota is ranked No. 1 in Midwest for overall energy efficiency, and No. 10 nationwide! 

Here at the Capitol, I’m dedicated to protecting our progress from those who are seeking to repeal the legislation that made this positive change possible. 

Investing In Our World-Class State Parks

In 2023, DFLers passed the largest-ever investment in our environment and natural resources, including improving our world class state park system. From new and upgraded bridges and trails, redesigned campsites, and improving accessibility at state parks, we’re making sure that current and future generations of Minnesotans can enjoy our great outdoors. 

Check out this article to learn more about how we’re strengthening the outdoor experience all around our state. 

Adopt me!

To help combat the chaos in the news and from the White House, I want to take a moment for positivity each week. The Coon Rapids Humane Society is right here in our district and does great work to ensure animals in need find loving homes, provide affordable care for pets in our community, and initiate animal education.   

Meet Drizzle, a 7-year-old Bulldog who loves cuddle time! He might take some time to warm up, but once he does, he’s nothing but love.

Stop by the Coon Rapids Animal Humane Society to meet Drizzle and take him home! 

Stay Connected

Unfortunately, due to technological constraints, replies to this newsletter won’t reach my email account.??To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out email at rep.kari.rehrauer@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-1729. You can contact my Legislative Assistant, Chloe, at 651-296-5486 or via email at chloe.keller@house.mn.gov.  You can also follow my legislative Facebook page.  

It is an honor and a privilege to represent you at the Capitol.??      

All my best,??      

Rep. Kari Rehrauer