Inclusion in Disability Definition Expanded
Starting August 1, 2024, Minnesotans with intermittent health conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, and those with canc er in remission will be protected under the Minnesota Human Rights Act. This new inclusion means these individuals can now request accommodations from their employers without fear of discrimination.
New Pay Transparency Law
Beginning January 1, 2025, Minnesota employers with 30 or more employees must include salary ranges and descriptions of benefits in job postings. This law aims to close the gender and racial pay gap by focusing on an applicant’s skills and qualifications rather than their pay history.
High-Speed Internet Funding for Rural Areas
U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith have announced $25 million in funding from the USDA to expand high-speed internet access in rural and Tribal communities, including areas around Detroit Lakes. This funding is part of the Broadband Technical Assistance Program under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Legislation to Double Pell Grant Amounts Introduced
U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith have introduced the Pell Grant Preservation and Expansion Act of 2024. This bill aims to nearly double the maximum Pell Grant award to make college more affordable for students.
Currently, Pell Grants cover less than 30% of tuition, fees, and living expenses, down from three-fourths in 1975-76. The Pell Grant program serves over 6 million undergraduate students.
s Act. This new inclusion means these individuals can now request reasonable accommodations from their employers without fear of discrimination.