SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Monday night, the Minnesota House approved legislation to replenish the state’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and deliver $1,500 bonus checks for more than 600,000 frontline workers, including health care workers, first responders, child care providers, food service and retail workers, and more. Additionally, the bill makes hourly school employees like paraprofessionals, classroom assistants, bus drivers and others eligible for unemployment benefits in the summer.
Rep. Laurie Pryor (DFL – Minnetonka) voted for the legislation and issued the following statement:
“During the toughest time of the pandemic and under very difficult circumstances, our frontline workers did their jobs, while risking their health. The frontline bonuses are our way of showing appreciation for their sacrifice and dedication. I support helping businesses by replenishing the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund, but we must give equal treatment to the workers who make those businesses succeed and our communities thrive.”
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