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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Paul Marquart (DFL)

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Why we need to “flatten the curve"

Sunday, March 22, 2020


Dear Neighbors,

A short time ago the Minnesota Department of Health provided its daily update of confirmed COVID-19 cases.

As of today (March 22), there are 169 cases in our state. That number is expected to continue climbing in the days and weeks ahead as more Minnesotans are tested. In our region, there are two confirmed cases in Clay County and zero in Becker and Norman counties.

The Legislature already took swift action to appropriate emergency funding for our hospitals, clinics, and providers. At the same time, Governor Walz has issued executive orders to address this public health crisis, including the activation of the National Guard.

If we all follow public health guidelines, we can “flatten the curve” and protect our health care workers, senior citizens, and other Minnesotans who are at a higher risk. If we do not, our health care system could become overwhelmed with patients in need of serious medical attention.

 

Flatten the Curve

 

If you are experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, my office is a resource that is available to help you navigate public agencies that are providing financial support. Email me at rep.paul.marquart@house.mn or call 1-800-551-5520 (please be prepared to leave a voicemail message -- staff are tele-commuting in order to comply with public health guidelines).

Thank you to everyone for doing your part in fighting the spread of COVID-19.

Sincerely,

Paul Marquart
State Representative

 

Unemployment insurance is available for workers impacted by COVID-19
If you aren’t able to work for a temporary period of time as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you could qualify for unemployment insurance benefits. Minnesotans are strongly encouraged to apply online at www.uimn.org (Sunday-Friday, 6am-8pm) to avoid long wait times. My colleagues and I are exploring what we can do at the state government level to help Minnesotans who don’t qualify for these benefits, and there is movement at the federal level to enact sweeping economic aid packages.

 

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans now available
Small businesses and non-profit organizations can apply right now for low-interest loans of up to $2 million. These loans can go toward working capital to meet needs including payroll, accounts payable, and fixed debt payments that can’t be paid due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The current interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses. The non-profit rate is 2.75%. These loans have long-term repayment options, up to a maximum of 30 years. For more information, click here to visit the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan website.

 

General resources
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_title