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Dear neighbors,
I hope you and your family are healthy and doing well. I know many Minnesotans are struggling right now, and we’re doing what we can to help people during this challenging time.
Stay at Home Order Extended
Today, Governor Walz announced he is extending the stay at home order, which was set to expire this Friday. The order will remain in effect until May 4. I know staying home hasn’t been easy, but it’s saving lives by slowing the spread of COVID-19 and allowing the state to continue key preparations. Please keep doing your part.
I want to remind you that the stay at home order isn’t intended to prevent spending time outside. Minnesotans are still free to go for a walk, exercise, or get some fresh air but should stay close to home and keep a six-foot distance from others while outdoors.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
First responders and health care workers put themselves at risk every day to keep Minnesotans safe and healthy. They deserve to know that we have their backs. Yesterday, the Minnesota House and Senate passed legislation to ensure firefighters, nurses, EMTS, police officers, and other frontline workers are covered by workers’ compensation if they contract COVID-19. Governor Walz signed the bill into law this morning.
Support for Self-Employed and Contract Workers
Many Minnesotans are experiencing economic hardship through no fault of their own. Self-employed and contract workers have been put in an especially difficult situation. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, these workers will soon be eligible for unemployment benefits for the first time. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is working with the U.S. Labor Department to get a new system up and running so these payments can be made. In the meantime, DEED is accepting applications here. A guide for self-employed and contract workers is available here.
Grants for Veterans Now Available
Minnesota veterans and their families deserve support during this challenging time. Two weeks ago, we passed a bill that included $6.2 million in aid for veterans or their surviving spouses who have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) began accepting applications for these grants on Monday.
To apply, contact your local County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) or MDVA Field Operations Representative. You can find a CVSO near you here, and MDVA Field Operations Representatives can be reached at FO.MDVA@state.mn.us. More information about the grants is available here.
Discrimination Helpline
No one deserves to be targeted based on their background. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in instances of discrimination against people of Asian descent in Minnesota and across the country. On Monday, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights launched a new Discrimination Helpline to help protect the civil rights of Minnesotans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Minnesotans who experience or witness discrimination can report incidents by calling 1-833-454-0148 or filling out an online form here.
COVID-19 Dashboard and Other Resources
Last week, Governor Walz created a new COVID-19 dashboard to track the spread of the virus and help Minnesotans find information and resources. It also provides information on available ventilators, ICU beds, personal protective equipment (PPE), and testing. The dashboard, which is updated daily, is available here.
The Minnesota Department of Health’s website, linked here, is still an excellent source of accurate and up-to-date information.
Please call or email me if you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions. Your input is more important than ever.
Sincerely,
John Persell
State Representative
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