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Legislative News and Views - Rep. John Poston (R)

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Capitol Newsletter from Rep. John Poston

Friday, April 10, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

On Wednesday, Governor Walz extended the state’s stay at home order to May 4th. The Governor also announced flexibility for more businesses to continue operating including lawn care, landscaping, agricultural equipment repair, garden centers, nurseries, and more.

I know a lot of individuals and businesses are struggling as a result of the closures. 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. 

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/.

Workers' Compensation for Front-Line Workers

The Minnesota House of Representatives convened on Tuesday to pass legislation to provide 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.

I voted in support of this legislation and hope that it serves as a clear signal to all front-line workers that the State of Minnesota has their back. I am so proud of our communities’ nurses, doctors, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and others who are so bravely going to work every day to care for us. We owe you a debt of gratitude.

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 fallout from the COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in significant financial hardship for businesses and families across Minnesota. The funds that have been made available for eligible farmers will go a long way in helping soften the damage caused by the pandemic. I encourage all of our local farmers to get in touch with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture 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

Happy Easter

From my family to yours, Happy Easter! While this year’s Holy Week has looked different due to the COVID-19 outbreak, I hope that you are still able to take time to reflect on the meaning of Easter.

Please contact me if you have any legislative questions, concerns, or ideas. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-5356 or via email at rep.john.poston@house.mn.

Have a good weekend,

John