Dear neighbors,
My colleagues and I are still working to help Minnesotans navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19 and to find solutions to other pressing issues. Yesterday, we participated in public hearings and an evening floor session.
In addition to the legislation that I mentioned in my last email, we hope to pass a resolution declaring racism a public health crisis. Rep. Ruth Richardson, who represents the other half of Senate District 52, introduced this declaration. It applies to the entire state and affirms that the House will be an active participant in dismantling racism. You can read the resolution here.
Housing Assistance
Yesterday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced that $100 million in federal funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act will go toward housing assistance. The funding will prevent evictions and homelessness and help people who are struggling to afford their homes because of the pandemic. Minnesotans will be able to apply for assistance in August. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency is currently accepting applications from local organizations who’d like to help administer the new program. You can find more information here.
COVID-19 Resources
COVID-19 still presents a danger to our communities. Positive cases and hospital admissions are surging in states like Texas and Florida, and officials there have paused or reversed their reopening plans as a result. We can’t risk going backward in Minnesota. Please continue to wear a mask in public, practice social distancing, and wash your hands frequently.
Minnesota’s COVID-19 dashboard, which you can find here, is a great source for accurate and up-to-date information. The Stay Safe webpage, available here, covers the resources available to Minnesotans as we work to reopen our state safely.
Please continue sharing feedback and any questions you may have. I appreciate your input!
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative