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Bars and restaurants are now working under new capacity regulations, as well as a 10:00 p.m. curfew, and there is a 10-person limit for indoor and outdoor social gatherings. For larger events, such as weddings and funerals, there is a 50-person limit starting on November 27, and a 25-person limit starting December 11.
These new restrictions are far from ideal, especially for our local businesses that have been struggling since the onset of COVID-19. That’s why I am glad the Governor also announced $10 million in grant funding to provide financial support for our small businesses affected by the pandemic. Businesses that were wait-listed in the lottery grant application process this summer will have the first opportunity this time around. I will keep you posted on the updated process as soon as it becomes available.
You can find more information on these announcements: https://staysafe.mn.gov/.
Each of us has a role play through proven public health practices that make a difference in slowing the spread: wearing masks in all indoor public settings; washing hands frequently; avoiding large groups; maintaining a distance of 6 feet from others; and getting tested.
Expanded “No Barrier” COVID-19 Testing
The Governor announced last week significant expansion in COVID-19 testing access, with the addition of more than a dozen new testing locations opening across the state over the next week. All of the new testing sites will continue to offer free, “no barrier” COVID-19 testing. Testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance.
The expansion in access to testing also includes the opening of 11 sites operated by the Minnesota National Guard that will remain open through at least the end of the year, in partnership with local public health staff. These 11 sites will offer a mix of saliva and nasal PCR tests. Additionally, the state recently opened its 9th saliva testing site at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.
Yesterday, a new saliva testing site opened in Burnsville, located at the former Pier 1 store on County Road 42.
Largest Bonding Bill in State History Signed into Law
Last month, the Minnesota Legislature passed a robust and bipartisan Jobs & Local Projects and Critical Economic Development bill with investments in infrastructure and economic stimulus to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic. Among other items, the legislation contains $1.879 billion toward public assets such as higher education institutions, clean water infrastructure, transportation, parks, trails, and funding for underserved communities.
I’m pleased to share that several Dakota Country projects were included. You can find a full list of all the statewide projects to receive bond funds here.
Stay Connected
Please continue to reach out anytime with questions, input, or to let me know how I can provide assistance at rep.robert.bierman@house.mn or 651-296-5506.
For additional updates, you’re welcome to follow me on my official Facebook page.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Robert Bierman
State Representative
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