By Rep Paul Anderson
The stay-at-home order continues in Minnesota, although it was relaxed somewhat to allow several additional businesses to go back to work. Those who perform lawn and garden services, landscaping, and golf course management are among those getting the ok to resume work. It’s hoped the governor will allow more companies to call employees back in coming days if they can demonstrate social distancing in their work places.
It’s my opinion that folks are becoming more restless and concerned about their financial future, especially following last week’s announcement that the stay-home order would continue until at least May 4.
With the date of May 15 being when the first half of property taxes are due, there is talk of somehow moving that date back. Only the Legislature can officially grant an extension of the due date. However, counties could decide to waive penalties and interest on payments made after May 15, effectively doing the same thing. That could be of great help to those out of work or to businesses that have been shut down and have no income source.
I would support a 30- or 60-day period, during which there would be no penalties for late payment. One thing to keep in mind with such a plan, however, is that it would affect other jurisdictions as well. School districts, cities and townships would also be in line for late tax settlements, as would any other special assessments levied on property.
Something else being discussed in at least one area county is a pro-rated discount on liquor licenses. It’s only fair, during the time bars or restaurants are forced to be closed except for take-out orders, that the cost of their on-sale liquor license be adjusted to reflect the loss of potential business. That decision would be up to counties and cities where those establishments are located.
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One of the governor’s executive orders that could use some revision is the one dealing with a three-month moratorium on foreclosures and utility disconnects. I understand the reasoning behind the order, in that if someone is out of work and can’t pay those bills, they should have additional time to come up with the money necessary. However, there are no guard rails with the order and it says that anybody can stop paying their rent. That would include those who are still working and basically unaffected financially by the stay-at-home order.
I think we are setting up for a bigger problem three months down the road when the entire amount of back rent is due. There is legislation being discussed where the state would step in and make these rental payments, but again there needs to be some guidance regarding who would be eligible for this assistance.
We go back into session again this week on Tuesday the 14th. Last week’s session marked the first time remote voting was done in the Minnesota House. Many of us who live a great distance from St. Paul were at home and voted over our phones. The process worked, but each vote taken was by roll call, and that was a bit cumbersome.
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