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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Nels Pierson (R)

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Rep. Pierson: Bill approved to provide funding for disability service providers

Friday, August 14, 2020

 

ST. PAUL – State Rep. Nels Pierson, R-Rochester, said he is pleased the Minnesota Legislature approved a bill Wednesday providing relief for organizations that provide day services for adults with permanent disabilities.

Specifically, the bill (H.F. 1) provides approximately $30 million in grants to help these organizations mitigate damages suffered due to COVID-19 restrictions. It appropriates $20 million for retention grants to home- and community-based providers to help them pay employees and maintain safety standards. It also provides $10 million for public health grants to help providers with the resources necessary to re-open safely with proper social distancing in place.

“This is a good first step to help these organizations that provide very valuable services for people in need of assistance,” Pierson said. “Restrictions the governor and his administration have placed upon them during the COVID-19 outbreak have proven to be highly detrimental. While this bill is no panacea, it will help mitigate the setback these organizations have been dealt in recent months so they can survive and continue helping their clients.”

The bill has been sent to Gov. Tim Walz for enactment. Upon his anticipated signature, there is a Sept. 15 application deadline for retention grants and public health grants will be available through 2020. Call the Minnesota Department of Human Services for more at (651) 431-2000.

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