Dear Neighbors,
It is hard to believe that our first committee deadline for policy bills will be here next week on March 22nd.
Below is an update of happenings at the Capitol:
International Women’s Day
Last Thursday was International Women’s Day. Legislators and hundreds of advocates attended to rally for the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment in Minnesota’s Constitution, which would create a constitutional amendment to ensure gender equality under the law. The amendment would read: "Equality under the law shall not be abridged or denied on account of gender."
A letter was sent to Rep. O’Driscoll to request a hearing for the bill related to the ERA, of which I’m an author. The bill has sat in committee for more than a year without action.
Veterans’ Day at the Capitol
On Monday, Minnesota veterans filled the Capitol for Veterans’ Day on the Hill and were recognized for their service to our country and state. All military branches were represented and several veterans spoke at the rally in favor of proposed legislation to improve the quality of life for many of our neighbors, family and friends who have sacrificed so much. A few of these bipartisan measures would provide one-time tax credit incentives for hiring qualified veterans, ensure veterans’ surviving spouses financial security to stay in their homes, and protect military benefits from predatory lenders.
Property Tax Refund Deadline
As we approach the end of the 2018 tax season, I would like to be sure you know about the Renter’s Property Tax and Homestead Credit Refund. To see if you qualify, please take a look at the Minnesota Department of Revenue’s Instruction Guide. The forms can be accessed here. The filing deadline is August 15, 2018.
The Minnesota Department of Revenue also has information available on filing for free on their website. If you are curious to know if you qualify for free electronic filing products, or would like assistance from a free tax preparation site, visit this page.
The pace at the Legislature continues to pick up. Please keep in touch, and do not hesitate to let me know how I can be of assistance to you on any state matter.
I would also like to invite you to ‘like’ my new legislative Facebook page for additional Capitol updates. You can find the page at: https://www.facebook.com/RepConnieBernardyMN, or use the search, ‘State Representative Connie Bernardy’ on your home Facebook page.
Sincerely,
Connie Bernardy
State Representative