Skip to main content Skip to office menu Skip to footer
Capital IconMinnesota Legislature

Legislative News and Views - Rep. Anne Claflin (DFL)

Back to profile

Legislative Update - July 30, 2019

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

Dear neighbors,

I hope you and your loved ones are enjoying the great things our community and state have to offer this summer. My family has been spending as much time outside as possible. We’ve particularly enjoyed visiting local parks. Our area has some of the best parks in Minnesota! 

I took this photo at Oakwood Park in Cottage Grove over the weekend.

New Laws Take Effect

In my last legislative update, I described the two-year state budget that my colleagues and I passed this session. It went into effect on July 1, along with several new laws. Additional laws will take effect on Thursday, August 1. 

These new laws will:

  • Protect elderly and vulnerable adults from abuse and neglect. This law is part of a package of sweeping reforms that will improve conditions in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It prohibits retaliating against residents who file a complaint.
  • Prevent distracted driving on Minnesota roads. The hands-free law prohibits holding a cell phone while driving. Drivers can still use their phones for certain functions but must keep their hands on the wheel. A guide to the law, including helpful tips for going hands-free, is available here.
  • Help communities address the opioid epidemic. This legislation holds pharmaceutical companies accountable for their part in creating this public health crisis and continuing to profit from it. Drug manufacturers and distributors pay higher annual fees, and the revenue is used for prevention, treatment, and public safety.
  • Fund the outdoors and the arts across the state. The Legacy Amendment plan invests in the things that make our state such a special place to live. It protects public lands and waters; improves parks, trails, and recreation areas; restores water quality; expands arts access and education; and preserves Minnesota’s history and cultural heritage.  

More information about the budget and the laws that took effect in July is available here. You can read more about the laws that take effect in August here.

Property Tax Refunds

Many Minnesotans qualify for a property tax refund but forget to file for it. Learn more about refunds for homeowners and renters at www.revenue.state.mn.us/property-tax-refund and find out if you’re eligible. If you qualify based on your income and property taxes, remember to apply before August 15.

Creating New Jobs in Our Community

The Minnesota Job Creation Fund encourages businesses to expand and attracts out-of-state businesses. Thanks to support from this fund and the Minnesota Investment Fund, Andersen Windows recently began an expansion in Cottage Grove that’s expected to create 125 new jobs.

This session, I worked hard to secure funding for strategies that are proven to create high-quality jobs and help communities thrive. I introduced successful legislation that invests in the Job Creation Fund, and I look forward to seeing that funding create more jobs in our community and across the state.

Stay in Touch

I always appreciate hearing from fellow community members, so please don’t hesitate to share any questions or input. You can reach me at rep.anne.claflin@house.mn or 651-296-4342.

Sincerely,

Anne Claflin
State Representative