Legislative Update: UBLC Town Hall, Climate, and Tax Filing Resources

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this message finds you staying well and healthy. This week, the Climate Action Caucus announced a $1 billion investment plan, Governor Walz released his proposed bonding budget of $2.7 billion, and we celebrated Martin Luther King Jr's birthday by spreading his message that all people have a right to participate in our democracy. Below I share my thoughts on the Climate Plan, resources on tax filing and COVID-19, and an invite to the United Black Legislative Caucus' town hall.

Black Caucus Town Hall

Looking forward to the weekend, I am excited to participate in an extremely important conversation with my Black colleagues on inequities related to COVID-19. We will be hearing directly from constituents and community members about the pandemic’s effects on their lives, as well as sharing state resources and our thoughts on future legislation. We’ll also be hearing from R.N. Shirlynn LaChapelle, a nurse from our community who has an intimate understanding of these inequities.

The goal of the event is to have an open, honest discussion about the effects of the pandemic on the Black community and the inequities in the healthcare system that have been made apparent during the ordeal.

Register and submit questions in advance here: https://us06web.zoom.us/.../tZArceGspzkuHdJ_EyW...

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

1/22 Facebook Event

COVID-19 Update

As the COVID-19 Omicron variant continues to rapidly spread across the country and our state, health care workers continue to plead with folks to get vaccinated, boosted, wear a mask, and stay home when you’re not feeling well.

Last week, the House Health Finance and Policy Committee held a remote hearing to discuss COVID-19’s status in Minnesota, including the Omicron variant and the pandemic’s impact on health care. Omicron is highly infectious, doubling every day-and-a-half to three days and as a result, health care system capacity continues to face pressure. Statewide test positivity is currently at 19.8%, the highest ever reported during the pandemic.

We’re all tired as we reach the grim milestone of nearly two years since the pandemic began, but it’s critical we do our part to keep each other safe, and to protect hospital infrastructure and capacity. Thank you for all you continue to do to show our dedicated frontline workers we care.

Speaking of our frontline workers, Minnesota is suffering with an emergency shortage of Certified Nursing Assistants. With a goal of 1,000 new CNA enrollees by the end of the month, the Office of Higher Education has launched a program to fund new students. Start a new career as a nursing assistant today and make a direct impact in your community. Free tuition, books, uniform, and exam. Learn more and find a program near you here.

With the continued spread of Omicron, the Biden Administration just announced that every home in the US is eligible to order 4 free at-home tests, delivered to your door. I ordered my tests this week, and it only took a couple of minutes. Order here.

Video of House Health Cmte 1/13

2022 Minnesota Climate Action Plan

As a member of the House Climate Action Caucus, I’m excited to let you know about the 2022 Minnesota Climate Action Plan that was announced this week.

This plan is a science-based approach meant to address the climate crisis, lower energy costs, and create jobs and economic opportunity while ensuring that our state is a great place to live and work for current and future generations of Minnesotans. It’s a $1 billion ask of our $7.7 billion surplus, and it’s an investment that will only make things more affordable for us down the line.

Video of Climate Caucus Presser

Bring it Home, MN

On Tuesday, legislators and a diverse group of housing advocates renewed our push to pass Bring it Home, Minnesota with a press conference on the Capitol steps. This plan is a bold way to use state-based rental assistance to ensure every Minnesotan can afford their home.

When rent is more manageable, peoples' budgets stretch further so families can afford the essentials like groceries, gas and all of the things they need to lead a thriving life.

It’s the right solution at the right time.

It is surprising that Housing issues often go overlooked. Change made in this area will affect other aspects of our lives in a positive way. If you'd like to follow solutions like this one this legislative session, please keep an eye on the House Housing Committee page.

About H.F. 40

Free Tax Filing Help

When you file your taxes this year, choose electronic filing. Last year, over 90 percent of Minnesota taxpayers filed their taxes electronically. Using electronic software is easy, convenient, and secure. Electronic filing also ensures that you have the most up-to-date forms and instructions when you file.

Free electronic filing is available for Minnesotans who meet certain requirements. You may be eligible to file electronically for free if your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is $72,000 or less. To see if you are eligible for free electronic filing, see the Electronic Filing Software for Individuals (https://go.usa.gov/xpSuy) page on the department’s website.

You may qualify for free tax preparation help for your federal and Minnesota income tax returns. To qualify, you must meet one of these criteria: be age 60 or older, have a disability, speak limited or no English, or have income less than $58,000 per year. There are over 170 free tax preparation sites across Minnesota where you can get help from IRS-certified volunteers. Most sites are open January 29 – April 15 and you can visit this website to find free tax preparation sites near you by the end of January. 

Walz and Flanagan Tour North Minneapolis

Last week, I was happy to join Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan as they learned about projects in our area that would lead to greater community investment.

V3 Sports is asking for support for a new health and wellness center. The center will be the future site of regional and national swimming competitions and will host an Olympic sized pool. The organization has been a staple in the community to train kids in swimming and triathlons.

The Phyllis Wheatley Center is seeking funding for a project that will support a renovation of a camp site in Carver County. The camp in the past allowed for day and overnight trips for kids who live in the city to have an opportunity to experience nature.

Hmong American Weekly Appearance

I'm excited to join my colleague Rep. Fue Lee to discuss the state’s $7.7 billion budget surplus, the pandemic, and help for struggling Minnesotans. We'll be on Facebook live at 8:00pm on Sunday, tune in here.

Stay in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime at rep.esther.agbaje@house.mn or 651-296-8659. With Capitol remote operations continuing, email is the quickest way to get in touch.

Thank you for the honor of representing our Minneapolis community.

Warmly,

Esther Agbaje

State Representative