Saint Paul, Minn. — Minnesota counties, cities, and towns will soon receive $841 million from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to pay for expenses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Counties and cities can also use CARES Act dollars to provide economic support for businesses, hospitals, and individuals. The Department of Revenue will distribute funds on a rolling basis beginning the week of June 29, 2020.
“I’m pleased that our local officials no longer have any uncertainty about when and how they will receive the resources they need to keep Minnesotans safe and healthy,” said Rep. Paul Marquart, who was the chief author of legislation that is guiding how federal funds are being allocated. “We owe a debt of gratitude to local governments and our law enforcement, fire fighters, first responders, and medical personnel who have been on the front lines keeping us safe during an unprecedented public health crisis.”
Click here to look up how much money Minnesota counties, cities, and towns will receive.
An additional $12 million in federal funding is being allocated to food shelves and food banks. Approximately 300,000 Minnesotans have visited food shelves each month since the pandemic began, representing approximately a 30 percent increase over typical visits. Food banks are distributing approximately 2.4 million pounds of food per week, representing a 20-40 percent increase since 2019.
The Legislature is expected to reconvene for another special session, or sessions, this summer. Visit www.house.mn for the latest news and announcements about legislative activity.
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