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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FROM REP. STEVE DRAZKOWSKI - DISTRICT 21-B
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Hello, friends. I wanted to take this opportunity to give an update to workers and employers regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.
Workers
Businesses and employees have been severely affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Many individuals are voluntarily staying home from work, being asked to stay home, or work for a business that has temporarily closed its doors. This represents a significant problem, especially for hourly workers. People still need money to pay the rent, buy groceries, and get other necessary supplies.
As such, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order on Monday to address these issues. Specifically, Governor Walz’ executive order allows workers affected by the COVID-19 outbreak to receive full unemployment benefits. This will allow workers to get the resources they need during this difficult time.
Here is a link to the Minnesota government website with more information regarding unemployment benefits for workers: https://www.uimn.org/applicants/needtoknow/news-updates/covid-19.jsp
Here is a link to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development website regarding information for workers affected by the COVID-19 outbreak: https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/covid/workers/
Here is another link with helpful information regarding worker protections: https://www.dli.mn.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/MN_worker_protections_related_to_COVID_19.pdf
Additionally, the Trump Administration is currently discussing the idea of sending funds directly to individuals to help alleviate financial suffering caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. Watch the news to stay updated as there will be more information to follow.
Employers
The COVID-19 pandemic represents a particularly difficult time for employers. Businesses are already shutting down, laying off workers, or have very few workers showing up due to concerns about COVID-19.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has prepared a series of guidelines for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the SBA is utilizing the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. This program will coordinate with Governors of different states to assist businesses that have been financially impacted by COVID-19. Specifically, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program will help provide low-interest loans to keep business whole. This program will provide vital capital to struggling businesses.
Information and guidelines for small businesses can be found here at the Small Business Administration’s website: https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources
Contact:
If you have any questions regarding COVID-19, please don’t hesitate to contact me or my office. My email address is rep.steve.drazkowski@house.mn. Additionally, please reach out to my Legislative Assistant, Luke, with any questions. Luke’s email is Luke.Sprinkel@house.mn. Emailing is the fastest way to get in contact with me. Contact me any time with questions or concerns.
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