First, we extend our condolences to the family of our state’s first COVID-19 fatality, and to Lt. Governor Flanagan on the death of her brother from the disease. Our thoughts are with Senator Klobuchar, who is in Washington D.C., while her husband is hospitalized with the Coronavirus.
Governor’s Press Conference
During today’s daily briefing, Governor Walz confirmed that he is in self-quarantine at the Residence.
The Governor announced the signing of two Executive Orders that contain key provisions that have been core to our advocacy efforts over the past week:
- EO 20-14: Calls for a moratorium on evictions during the pandemic
- EO 20-15: Peacetime Small Business and Independent Contractor Loan Program, bringing up to $58M in available relief from the state.
- $30M fund to provide loans in amounts between $2,500 and $35,000; 0% interest, long-term repayment and up to 50% forgivable. Application details expected later this week.
- Empowers cities and counties who have revolving loan funds from the state totaling roughly $28M to partner with small businesses to provide relief.
In addition, the Governor announced that the state income tax filing date has been moved to July 15, 2020 to align with the federal change, reminding Minnesotans that there will be a ripple effect of the delay in collection. He also announced that the Governor’s 2020 Supplemental Budget has been adjusted to include $356M for COVID-19 response.
SBA Small Business Loan Program
Minnesota has been approved for the federal SBA Small Business Loan Program for businesses impacted by the Coronavirus. Businesses are encouraged to
apply
for the federal, as well as the state program outlined above, to ensure the broadest range of options. Currently, the federal SBA’s online training webinars are full, but you can still go
online and apply
. We are working with the local office, and DEED, to organize an industry-specific session, so stay tuned for details. The state program outlined above is intended to provide a rapid response and to serve those who may not qualify for the SBA program.
Seeking “Essential Business” Designation for Minnesota Hospitality Businesses
On Sunday, we requested that Governor Walz designate Minnesota restaurants, lodging, resorts and campgrounds as “essential businesses” should a “shelter-in-place” order be called.
[Read More]
Families First Coronavirus Response Act Update
Continued advocacy on liquor sales
We continue to advocate for allowing establishments to temporarily sell to-go liquor. In the meantime, Minneapolis has announced that they are suspending payment of liquor licenses that are currently due. We are checking with other municipalities on their plans to do the same.
Food Donations
We continue to see restaurants donating their food – to their employees, to their community and to organized efforts to feed those made more vulnerable by the Coronavirus. If you have food to donate, go to
www.mealconnect.org
and quickly set up an account. From there, enter the food available, and Second Harvest will coordinate pickup. Refer to the Minnesota Department of Health’s
Food Donation Guide
for more information.
Join Ecolab Experts for Webinar on Tuesday, March 24
Ecolab experts will provide an update on the current outbreak, share critical, relevant information and provide practical guidance to help keep your employees and customers safe.
Register here
.
TAKE ACTION ON IMPACT FEDERAL LEGISLATION
You can participate in the National Restaurant Association’s Action Alert today by
clicking here
and the American Hotel and Lodging Association’s Action Alert by
clicking here
.
