|
COVID-19 Assistance Negotiations Continue
As discussions of stimulus checks and economic relief continue to stall in Congress, we’re working hard at the state level to deliver a bridge assistance package for small businesses, workers, and families. On November 24, House DFLers announced legislation that would keep small businesses afloat, support workers struggling to get by, and help families keep food on their tables. Our proposal is supported by the governor and received two virtual public hearings this week. Specifically, key components of the package of legislation would:
- Extend Unemployment Benefits up to 13 additional weeks in unemployment benefits for MN workers who have exhausted all federal and state benefits.
- Economic Boost for MFIP Families by providing a one-time $500 stimulus check for 30,000 MFIP Families.
- Business Assistance by delivering $200 million in grants to restaurants, bars, gyms, theaters and many other entities directly affected by the executive orders and the pandemic.
A key sticking point with Senate Republicans seems to be only a willingness to grant assistance to small businesses. Democrats in the House and Senate understand that our economy cannot begin the track to post-pandemic recovery without supporting workers too. Our working families are relying on aid they need now to get there. Afterall, they spend that money in our economy and at those local businesses.
Governor Walz has officially called a special session for this Monday, December 14 at 3:00 p.m. I’m hopeful we can change the hearts and minds of our friends on the other side of the aisle before then.
Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Applications
Today, the Education Finance Committee that I sit on met to go over a proposal that would give a brief extension to school districts to collect forms from families for free and reduced lunch. Currently, that deadline is December 15 and the proposed legislation would move it to January 4, 2021. A quick reminder, to see if you qualify go here for St. Louis Park Public Schools and here for Hopkins Public Schools.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to reach out at rep.cheryl.youakim@house.mn or by leaving me a voicemail at 651-296-9889. Because we are still operating remotely in the Minnesota House of Representatives, email is the best way to reach me. You’re welcome to follow me on my official Facebook page for additional community and Capitol updates.
Thank you for the honor of serving our Hopkins and St. Louis Park families in the Legislature!
Stay well,
Cheryl Youakim
State Representative
|