Unemployment benefits will soon be available for self-employed individuals

Dear Neighbors, 

As part of the recently enacted federal stimulus bill, the federal government is making unemployment benefits available for self-employed individuals.

Each state is in the process of creating a program to verify eligibility and calculate benefits. We’re expecting more news on that development in the coming days. This is important because many people who contribute to our economy in the form of start-up companies and independent contractors do not qualify for the state benefits that others are able to obtain. 

In other news, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development created a new guide for small businesses that need help during this unprecedented public health crisis. Click here for the most up-to-date and accurate information about financial assistance for small businesses. 

Lastly I want to pass along news that Governor Walz announced plans to hold his annual State of the State address Sunday, April 5, 2020, beginning at 7:00pm. The address will be delivered live from the Governor’s Residence and can be watched on YouTube Live. 

Thank you for everything you are doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These are challenging times and we can get through them by supporting one another and showing each other compassion and kindness. Please reach out to my office if I can be of assistance in any way. Email me at rep.paul.marquart@house.mn, call 1-800-551-5520, or visit www.house.mn/04B. 

Sincerely,

Paul Marquart

State Representative 

General Resources

Stay Home MN website

www.mn.gov/stayhomemn 

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

www.cdc.gov 

Minnesota Department of Health

651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903 (7am-7pm daily)

www.health.state.mn.us 

School and child care questions:

651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504 (7am-7pm daily)

www.education.mn.gov 

*Child care providers with questions should call 1-888-234-1268.

Information for workers and employers: www.mn.gov/deed/newscenter/covid 

Minnesota Department of Health Spanish language website: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/materials/spanish.html

American Sign Language PSA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8bUdMEsiPQ&feature=emb_titl