Greetings Northlanders,
I hope you and your family have enjoyed summer so far. I hope you can get out and enjoy some time with family and friends, and experience all our state has to offer.
Explore Minnesota
As you plan summer travel, considering checking out Explore Minnesota for ideas. They have wonderful resources and great travel ideas in a region you may already be planning to visit, or ideas for a trip you’ve never even considered.
Property Tax Refund and Renters Credit
Don’t forget to apply for your property tax refund or renters credit before it’s too late. Every year, many Minnesotans qualify for this refund but forget to file for it.
The deadline to file for a property tax refund is August 15th. If you haven’t done so, take a few minutes and apply for your refund online at the Department of Revenue’s Property Tax Refund website.
New Driver’s Licenses
This past spring, the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security approved an extension for Minnesota’s compliance with the federal Real ID program. Minnesota is on track to have Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses available by October 1 of this year. It’s important to note that these Real ID licenses won’t be required until 2020.
This week, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety unveiled brand new designs for driver’s licenses. The redesigned cards will be available in August at all driver’s license service centers in Minnesota at the same cost as the old cards.
You do not need to replace your current driver’s license or ID card unless the card is expiring, or you need to change your address or name. Minnesotans will be able to use their current license and ID card until the expiration date on the card. Minnesotans whose driver’s licenses or identification cards expire before October 2018 should plan to renew their cards as they normally would. Click here for more information.
New Laws
Since the House majority packaged nearly all of their proposals into one massive budget bill, with many provisions Gov. Dayton had made clear he would veto, only a few new laws went into effect on July 1st. They included licensing for athletic trainers, changes to the Taconite Economic Development Fund, adjustments to the legislative budget office, and personal claims against the state. You can read more about the new laws here.
Last Update
This will be my last e-update until after the election. During election years, there is a prohibition on sending communications like this 60 days after we adjourn. While I won’t be able to send out these updates for a while, I’m still available to meet, help with state level problems, and discuss issues important to you. Feel free to call or email me anytime.
It’s an honor to represent you.
Sincerely,
Rob Ecklund
State Representative