Dear Neighbors,
Our historic legislative session in 2023 was a true testament to progress. Now, it's time to take our successes even further. DFLers are collaborating with community leaders and advocates across the state, listening to diverse community voices, to refine and enhance the bills we passed. Our goal is to guarantee these impactful laws truly serve the needs of all Minnesotans.
Although we made significant strides last year, some recurring themes we keep hearing about from constituents are childcare affordability, housing security, access to education, and tax reform.
Here are some bills and opportunities you can explore and benefit from:
Great Start Affordability Act
Earlier this week, I was honored to support my colleagues in announcing the Great Start Affordability Act. This bill will address childcare affordability, thereby enhancing workforce development in Minnesota. Investing in childcare affordability is a sound economic and social investment, yielding significant benefits for individuals, families, and our broader economy.
By addressing this critical issue, we can promote workforce development, enhance child well-being, and contribute to a more prosperous and equitable society. #KidsCountOnUs
Minnesota for Homes Initiative
In our Housing Committee, my colleagues Representatives Larry Kraft and Alicia 'Liish' Kozlowski introduced the Minnesotans for More Homes Initiative which offers a powerful solution to Minnesota’s racial equity gap in homeownership by increasing the state's "missing middle" housing supply.
In Minnesota, I believe every family deserves a safe and stable home. We must provide diverse housing options, and by supporting programs that keep families housed and fostering generational homeownership, we can unlock long-term sustainability for our families, communities, and the entire state's economic growth.
Property Tax Refund
With tax season underway, DFLers worked diligently to ensure Minnesota families have access to the tax credits and deductions they've earned, strengthening their financial foundation. We worked to simplify the Property Tax Refund, making sure every renter will receive the refund they deserve, one-third of whom are seniors or people with disabilities.
You can qualify for the $204 average refund by visiting www.revenue.state.mn.us/property-tax-refund.
Minnesota Dream Act Application
GREAT NEWS!! The Minnesota Dream Act Application, our state's financial aid application for students who have undocumented status, is now open! College-bound students who plan to attend college or career school during the 2024-2025 school year should complete this application.
By applying for the MN Dream Act, eligible undocumented students can receive state-based financial aid, which includes the Minnesota State Grant and North Star Promise Scholarship. Students can also receive in-state resident tuition rates and privately funded financial aid at Minnesota public colleges and universities.
Like the FAFSA, the application must be completed each academic year the student is enrolled in college.
Learn more at www.ohe.state.mn.us/MNDreamAct
Keep in Touch
Please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime with input, or questions, or to let me know how I can be of assistance at rep.samakab.hussein@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5158. Be sure to ‘like’ and follow my new Facebook page.
Thank you for the honor of serving our community.
Sincerely,
Rep. Samakab Hussein
Committee Assignments:
Vice Chair Legacy Finance
Capital Investment
Housing Finance and Policy
Labor and Industry Finance and Policy
Legislative Assistant
Jacob Hooper
jacob.hooper@house.mn.gov
651-296-9467