Dear Neighbors, With just around three weeks left of the legislative session, there's a real sense of urgency and focus as we work to finalize the state budget. We also know that we are crafting this budget in the midst of deep uncertainty regarding policies coming down from the federal government. Please keep reaching out to me. Sharing your stories, whether through email, meetings at the Capitol, or town halls, helps me ground my work and the votes I take in the real needs of our district. The budget bills we’ve passed through committee over the last few weeks are now being voted on the floor for final debate and passage. Due to the tied House with equal Democrats and Republicans, some of these budget bills aren’t perfect. I don’t agree with all of them, and I'm pushing hard to make sure the final compromises reflect our district’s values: investing in education, protecting affordable health care, supporting working families, and safeguarding our environment. I’m committed to fighting for a budget that puts people first, even when that means tough negotiations and standing firm on key priorities. As we head into the final stretch, I’ll continue to advocate for you every step of the way. Thank you for trusting me with this responsibility. It’s an honor to serve you! House Passes Veterans and Military Affairs Budget BillThis week, we approved the bipartisan Veterans Budget bill, including a long overdue recognition and state veteran status for veterans of the Secret War in Laos. Additional provisions include addressing food insecurity, homelessness and suicide prevention funding, statewide support for veterans’ homes, and efforts to protect access to their benefits. I look forward to the Conference committee process where we can connect with the Senate to make the final bill even better. The package invests in the well-being, dignity, and recognition Minnesota veterans deserve. I joined several of them at a press conference, which you can view here. Update on the HOA Reform BillThank you for your e-mails, phone calls, and conversations. I have been compiling your feedback, and having frequent discussions with the bill author for HF1268/SF1750. Even though the bill has stalled in the House, there is still movement and significant work being done in the Senate. I wanted to update you to let you know that your feedback has been heard, and here are some changes to the provisions of greatest concern: - Previous language: Late fees are capped at $15
- Amended: Late fees are capped at $15 or 5% of the amount owed, whichever is greater
- Previous language: Total fee cap of $2500
- When combined with other fees, the cap is $2500 unless there is an immediate impact to health and safety, there is physical damage to another unit or common element, or the violation involves using the property for financial enrichment (e.g. short or long-term rentals)
- Clarification on the amount for liens for unpaid assessments based on monthly dues
- Meet and confer process clarified, including the ability to meet in-person, virtually, or over the phone, and the unit owner has 30 days to respond to a request for a meet and confer
- Clarification surrounding conflict of interest, completed in consultation with attorneys and Legal Aid
The bill is over 50 pages long, and is the result of a statutorily authorized working group. The group was led by Chair Kristin Bahner and Vice-chair Eric Lucero. They met 14 times over five months last summer, and created the recommendations that were refined in the bill. Since that time, there have been hundreds of changes, and I am grateful for their hard work and thoughtful consideration. I will continue to monitor its movement closely. Thanks again for your attention and feedback! In addition to this bill, here are other HOA-related bills that I am co-authoring: - HF0856 - HOA Ombudsperson (passed as part of the Commerce Policy Bill, SF2216)
- HF2228 - Insurance task force (passed as part of the Commerce Policy Bill, SF2216)
- HOA registration/database (included with the Ombudsperson in the Senate) (SF1063)
- Attorney General authority to oversee HOAs/CICs (HF1931)
Minnesota Making Progress on Clean Energy In 2023 and 2024, we made generational investments in a cleaner, cheaper, and more efficient energy system, putting Minnesota on the path to 100% Carbon-Free Energy by 2040. The latest Minnesota Energy Factsheet shows our policies are working and our investments are paying off, creating high-paying clean energy jobs, lowering costs for families, and building a greener future: ? A new record low in carbon emissions, cutting another 4% between 2023 and 2024. ? Residents and businesses have saved more than $307 million in energy costs from the Energy Conservation Optimization (ECO) Act. ? Minnesota is ranked No. 1 in the Midwest for overall energy efficiency, and No. 10 nationwide! Here at the Capitol, I’m dedicated to protecting our progress from those who are seeking to repeal the legislation that made this positive change possible. Investing In Our World-Class State ParksIn 2023, we passed the largest-ever investment in our environment and natural resources, including improving our world-class state park system. From new and upgraded bridges and trails, redesigned campsites, and improved accessibility at state parks, we’re ensuring that current and future generations of Minnesotans can enjoy our great outdoors. Check out this article to learn more about how we’re strengthening the outdoor experience all around our state. I recently joined the Friends of the Boundary Waters rally, which was a great reminder that we need to take care of our precious planet for this and future generations  Constituent CornerWe have a wonderful, passionate, and active community, and I’ve been so fortunate to meet with many of you! Recently, I’ve met with: - Jeremy, Dylan, and Jenna from AFSCME - Brian and the Minnesota Community Action Partnership - Paul, Karla, and Dawn about healthcare justice with ISAIAH - Woodbury Leadership Academy sixth graders - Washington County Commissioner Michelle Clasen  Keep in TouchYour voice is important to me! You can contact me at rep.amanda.hemmingsen-jaeger@house.mn.gov, by phone at 651-296-7807, or follow along my Facebook page, Instagram, or BlueSky with your questions, concerns, or ideas for this session. I appreciate the opportunity to serve our district in the legislature and look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger State Representative |