SAINT PAUL, MN — This afternoon, the Minnesota House of Representatives approved a package of COVID-19 economic security legislation. The bill, HF 1507, contains $100 million for housing assistance, a wage increase for personal care assistants (PCA), funding to expand broadband access, and small business loans.
State Representative Alice Hausman (DFL – St. Paul), chair of the Housing Finance and Policy Division, released a statement regarding the housing assistance provisions.
“The lack of affordable housing isn’t new – it has been with us for years, but the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the sheer number of Minnesotans who live with housing insecurity. Our investment of $100 million doesn’t solve every housing problem in the state, but it certainly will help keep people in their homes during this difficult and uncertain time.”
The $100 million will assist Minnesota renters, homeowners, and landlords. In addition to support for rent and mortgages, qualified applicants can receive help paying utility bills and property taxes. The proposal has received broad support, ranging from the Homes for All Coalition, representing 250 Minnesota housing organizations, to the Minnesota Multi-Housing Association, which represents property management companies throughout the state.
Video of the House floor debate can be found here.
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