Legislative Update - April 2, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

The beginning of April is a reminder that the 2020 Census is upon us! By now, you should have received information in the mail with a code that allows you to respond quickly online. Another option includes calling in at 844-330-2020. 12 non-English language phone options posted here. You can also fill out a paper questionnaire, which will be mailed in mid-April to households that have not yet responded online or by phone.

Making sure we have an accurate count is crucial so our fair share of federal investments for our hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and roads is secured. Minnesota’s census response rate is currently at 46%, but we can do better! Check out our daily progress (after you fill out yours) on the Census Response Tracker that tracks response rates for every state and U.S. Territory.

Last week, my colleagues and I reconvened at the Capitol – practicing MDH’s distancing guidelines – to pass a bipartisan, comprehensive package of bills to help Minnesotans respond to COVID-19. Our bill, which was signed by Governor Walz, enacts the following:

• $200 million dedicated to a COVID-19 Minnesota Fund to support further action
• Peacetime emergency child care grants
• COVID-19 assistance for veterans
• Food shelves and food banks
• Resources for emergency services and homeless shelters
• Expanded support available to small businesses
• Disaster assistance for farmers to include losses due to COVID-19

There is still more to do for Minnesotans in light of this pandemic, and I continue working from home with constituents and colleagues to find practical solutions we can deliver quickly.

New Guide for Small Businesses

In previous emails, I’ve mentioned several state and federal programs that were created to help small businesses affected by COVID-19. Different programs make sense for different businesses, so the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) put out a guide that details all of the assistance available in one spot. This information can help small businesses determine which programs might work for them. Click here to view the guide.

Governor Walz’s Remote State of the State Address

Governor Walz will give his annual State of the State address on this Sunday, April 5 at 7:00 p.m. from the Governor's Residence. The address will be streamed live and can be accessed on Facebook, YouTube, or local television stations.  

Local Heroes

Difficult times like these bring out the best in Minnesotans and our communities. Through generous donations from Apple Valley High School alumni and students, local businesses, community members, and organizations, Apple Valley High School Fab Lab Coordinator Chris Lee and Lakeville resident David Kujawski have been producing 3D printed face shields to deliver to medical personnel who are on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. Hats off to all those involved, you make us proud to be a part of this community! Read more in the Sun Current news story here.

Keep in Touch

Please contact me anytime to let me know how I can be of assistance during these challenging times. I can be reached at 651-296-5506 or by email at rep.robert.bierman@house.mn.

Follow me on my official Facebook page for additional updates.

It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol (currently, via Apple Valley).

Sincerely,

Robert Bierman

State Representative