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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jennifer Schultz (DFL)

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Legislative Update - July 20, 2018

Friday, July 20, 2018

Dear Neighbors,
 
I hope you are enjoying your summer. We’re extremely lucky to live in Duluth where we have such an abundance of opportunities to take advantage of summer. If you’re looking to head elsewhere in the state, Explore Minnesota is a good resource for information.
 
Tax Filing Info and Property Refund Tax Refund Reminder
Earlier this week, the Minnesota Department of Revenue released some information concerning filing of 2018 taxes next year. The department updates its filing system every year, but with the changes made in the recently-passed Trump federal tax bill, this year’s updates need to be a bit more involved to accommodate the countless differences between the state and federal tax laws. DOR has some frequently asked questions about the tax law changes here and questions about the 2019 filing season here.
 
I also want to remind everyone to apply for a property tax refund or renters credit if you haven’t yet done so. Many Minnesotans qualify for the refund, but too many forget to file for it. The deadline to file is August 15th. Take a few minutes and apply for your refund online or get more information at the Department of Revenue’s Property Tax Refund website.
 
US Water Alliance One Water Summit
In my capacity as a member of the Great Lakes Commission (GLC), I attended US Water Alliance’s One Water Summit in Minneapolis earlier this month. The conference was focused on sustainable, integrated, and inclusive approaches to managing water.
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner John Linc Stine was on hand to present GLC delegation action items.
Dave Ross, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Water (right), was also in attendance to share some insights.
 
EPA Meeting in Duluth
Last week, the EPA held a meeting in Duluth regarding the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. It was a good opportunity for citizens to learn about the GLRI Action Plan development process, talk with representatives from EPA and other agencies, and provide input on priorities to be used in the initial stage of developing a future GLRI Action Plan for 2020- 2024. The focuses of this plan include: toxic substances and areas of concern; invasive species; nonpoint source pollution; impacts on nearshore health; habitat and species; and future restoration actions.
Last Update
This will be my last email update until after November’s election. There are rules in place that prohibit legislators from sending out newsletters like these 60 days after we adjourn in an election year. Having said that, I still welcome you to contact me with your questions, ideas, or if I can ever assist in any way.

It’s an honor to be your voice at the State Capitol.

Sincerely,

Jen Schultz
State Representative