Minnesota Legislative Update - APRIL

As the snow melts and spring blooms in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, AARP Minnesota is turning up the heat at the state Capitol. Our mission? To amplify your voice, champion your rights, and make sure your concerns are heard loud and clear by lawmakers. AARP Minnesota is advocating for what is important to our members and giving you a voice at the state and federal levels.

The Minnesota Legislature’s 2024 session kicked off on February 12, and it’s been a whirlwind of policy debates, impassioned speeches, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering. Before the legislators packed their bags for break, AARP Minnesota hosted a Lobby Day where our volunteers swarmed the Capitol and met with lawmakers, shared stories, and made sure our 2024 Legislative Priorities were front and center. Our team of AARP staff and volunteer advocates have been tracking bills and keeping a close eye these priorities. Below is a mid-session update on the bills we've focused on this legislative session:

• Save Lives on the Road: Reduce Driver Safety Course Length to Increase Participation (SF 727-Nelson; HF 4587-Bierman)
  This bill was laid over for inclusion in the Senate Omnibus bill. Rep. Tabke offered the driver's safety bill as an amendment to the House Transportation Omnibus bill for inclusion. offered the driver’s safety bill as an amendment to the House Transportation Omnibus bill for inclusion. 

• Prohibit Predatory Real Estate Scams (SF 3334- Xiong, HF 3338- Freiberg; SF 4138- Seeberger, HF 4034- Cha)
  This bill is currently moving in the Commerce Omnibus bills. 
  
  
• Protect Older Homeowners from Losing the Equity in their Homes When They Can't Pay Their Property Taxes (SF 4985- Westlin; HF 4822- Feist)
  This bill is currently in the House Environment & Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee and Senate Environment, Climate and Legacy Committee. It has only been heard in the House Judiciary committee and we are working with author to make sure our concerns are being addressed. 

• Create a Restitution Fund for Victims of Scams and Fraud
  The issue is unlikely to move forward this session, but we will be back next year to continue to advocate for the creation of this fund on behalf of victims of scams and fraud. 

• Assisted Living Licensure Changes- Chapter 144G (SF 4044-Hoffman; HF 4220- Lee)
  Bill changes are moving in the Omnibus Human Services bill. We are trying to fight off the provisions that weaken protections from getting in the bill. 

What’s Next?
As the legislative clock ticks, we’ll keep you in the loop. Sign up to become an AARP Activist, and you'll receive the AARP Advocate, a free monthly e-newsletter; e-mail action alerts on the issues you care about; and the latest news on Congress and the White House.

Remember, your voice matters. And together, we’re turning up the volume.