Dear Neighbors,
I hope you and your family are enjoying summer, and that you’ve been able to stay cool during our recent heat wave. Here’s an update from the Capitol.
Frontline Worker Pay Reminder
I’m incredibly proud that this legislative session, lawmakers came together to invest $500 million in bonus pay for the frontline workers who put their own health at risk during the darkest days of the pandemic to keep our state moving forward. Workers in fields including health care, first response, child care, food, retail, and others are all eligible for additional pay.
Time is running out to apply though, and the deadline is today, Friday, July 22 at 5 p.m. Learn about eligibility requirements and submit your application here.
Property Tax Refund Reminder
If you’re a renter or homeowner, you may be entitled to a Property Tax Refund, either through the Homestead Credit Refund (for which you can apply electronically) or the Renter’s Property Tax Refund program. Every year, many Minnesotans are eligible, but they just forget to apply because the process is separate from your annual income tax filing. You may qualify in 2022 even if you did not in previous years.
The deadline to apply is August 15. Learn more here from the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
New 988 Hotline
Mental health crises – and tragically, suicide – are becoming a greater public health concern. This past Saturday, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline transitioned to a new service with an easier-to-remember number to help those in need. Now, by dialing or texting 988, a trained mental health counselor is available 24 hours a day, seven days per week if you or someone close to you is experiencing a crisis. Traditional approaches in response to 911 calls aren’t always best equipped to respond to mental health crises, and the new number will help ensure people can quickly get support.
Workers can connect callers to additional support or in-person care. The service is free and confidential.
Last Update
This will be my last e-update this summer, as legislators – whether or not they are seeking reelection – cannot send emails or postal mailings from the Capitol in an election period. Still, I want to hear from you! Feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, comments, or if I can ever help. I’m still your state representative through the end of the year, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
Have a terrific summer!
Sincerely,
Rena Moran
State Representative