Rep. Jon Applebaum (44B) – Legislative Update
Dear Neighbors,
I’d like to start off by hoping everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving, with good times surrounded by family, friends and plenty of food. I also wanted to share some very exciting personal news: my wife Kate and I are expecting our first child this April. Since I work for you, I thought you may like to know!
As for updates from the State Capitol:
Budget Forecast
Earlier this week Minnesota Management and Budget announced the November Economic Forecast, which provides a preliminary financial outlook for the next legislative session. Unfortunately, the news wasn’t good, with a projected budget deficit standing at $302 million, when taking into account legislative funding not yet appropriated. As things stand now, this could balloon to $586 million in just over a year and a half.
Certainly this is all the more disappointing considering the 2017 session started with a $1.6 billion surplus. Since then, the Republican-majority’s irresponsible budget that focused on excessive tax cuts for corporations, including big tobacco has changed the ink on Minnesota’s finances from black to red. I opposed those reckless measures, and think we need to refocus on improving economic stability for working families so that everyone has a chance to be successful.
To be sure, the situation isn’t dire – yet – and another budget forecast is due in February. We will, however, have to work together to make sure we remain in a sound financial position that allows us to deliver results on the things we all value, like great schools, top-quality health care, and 21st century transportation infrastructure.
Energy Assistance/Cold Weather Rule
With the weather getting colder, there is plenty to look forward to, including outdoor activities that make up much of our fabric as Minnesotans. Unfortunately for many in our community, however, winter can pose difficulties when energy bills start piling up. No family should be left out in the cold, and help is available to make sure this doesn’t happen.
For those Minnesotans under certain income levels, help may be available toward payment of energy bills, utility disconnections or fuel deliveries and advocacy with power companies and human service providers. For more information, including eligibility and how to apply, please visit the Minnesota Department of Commerce’s website here.
On October 15, the Minnesota Cold Weather Rule went into effect, protecting residential utility customers from having their heat shut off during the winter months. Certain low-income consumers aren’t required to pay more than 10 percent of their household income toward current and past heating bills, while others are eligible to arrange a Cold Weather Rule payment plan. More information is available from the Public Utilities Commission here.
Health Care open enrollment
The period in which to enroll in health insurance coverage for 2018 has been open for just over one month. So far, over 100,000 Minnesotans have utilized MNsure, the state’s health insurance exchange, to apply for coverage. Whether you get coverage from a public plan like MinnesotaCare of Medical Assistance, or a qualified commercial plan, MNsure is a “one-stop shop” to compare plans and sign up. Applying through MNsure is also the only way to take advantage of tax credits toward your premiums that may be available.
The open enrollment period ends January 14. If you want coverage effective January 1, the deadline to apply is December 20. Trained navigators are available to assist with the process of applying for coverage. My office is also available to assist if you need help, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
What do you value?
Do you have ideas how the state legislature can improve life for you, your family, and your community? As we seek to do this, a big part of the challenge is identifying our shared values as Minnesotans. Recently, other legislators and I have launched the Minnesota Values Project, bringing people together for conversations about this in every corner of the state. There have been thoughtful, honest discussions about how we can best move Minnesota forward. I invite you to share your thoughts and let us know what you value. Please take this opportunity to fill out a brief, four-question survey.
As always, I welcome your ideas, input, and questions. Feel free to contact me any time with these, or if I can ever be of assistance.
It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Jon Applebaum
State Representative