Dear Neighbors,
From my family to yours, Happy Easter. I hope that during this uncertain time, you take a moment to meditate on God’s most perfect gift this Easter. Have a blessed Easter.
Governor Walz Extends Stay at Home Order
On Wednesday, Governor Walz extended the state’s stay at home order until May 4th.
I understand that the order has created a great deal of hardship for businesses, employees, and all Minnesotans. Please reach out to my office or visit the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s website for information regarding loans available for small businesses.
If you were recently laid off, please visit https://www.uimn.org/ to apply for unemployment.
Finally, if you have any questions about the executive order, please click here: https://mn.gov/covid19/faq/.
Please know that legislators have been pushing the administration on a daily basis asking for exemptions, flexibility and common sense. If there are businesses that can protect the safety of employees and customers, we should allow them to do so.
House Approves Workers Compensation for Front-Line Workers
Tuesday, the Minnesota House of Representatives convened to pass legislation that provides presumptive workers compensation insurance to front-line workers who contract COVID-19.
The bill is a compromise agreement made by legislators from all four House and Senate caucuses, and advocates from labor and business groups.
The legislation we approved is a small step to give front-line workers peace of mind and recognize the critical role they play in combating the COVID-19 crisis. Our entire community is grateful for the sacrifice that medical professionals and others are making to keep us safe and healthy.
A copy of the bill can be found here.
Disaster Loans Available for Farmers
The Minnesota Disaster Recovery Loan Program is now accessible to farmers who are suffering financial damages related to the COVID-19 outbreak after the Legislature expanded access to the funds.
Legislative approval of a bill on March 26th increased program flexibility, providing a resource to farmers for expenses not covered by insurance.
The flexibility that these funds provide will help farmers in our community better deal with the COVID-19 outbreak. I encourage all of our local farmers to reach out to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture for more information and to determine eligibility.
According to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), program dollars can be used to “replace livestock or flocks, make building improvements, or cover the loss of revenue. Loan proceeds may also be used to repair or replace septic and water systems, and replace destroyed agricultural buildings.
Click here for more information: https://bit.ly/34iQkYd.
Staying in Touch
Please continue to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-6746 or via email at rep.sondra.erickson@house.mn.
God Bless and Happy Easter,
Sondra