NW Twin Cities

The Minnesota House of Representatives has focused on a number of issues designed to provide relief to state residents.

Rep. Dean Urdahl provided a number of highlights in a recent update. Among those was the expansion of worker’s compensation. It would ensure state workers receive full benefits should they test positive for COVID-19.

Urdahl also highlighted the Minnesota Disaster Recovery Loan Program. The program has been expanded to farmers who suffer a loss of finances because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The legislature has created two programs to assist veterans in wake of the pandemic. One is Disaster Relief Grants and the second is Special Needs Grants. Disaster Relief Grants come in one-time disbursements of $1,000 and is also available to an unmarried surviving spouse.

The Special Needs Grant is also a one-time disbursement and goes to a vendor or creditor. None of the funding goes to the applicant.

Urdahl brought an insulin program to the forefront. Insulin in the amount of $35 is available introduced by the Lilly Insulin Value Program.

He also announced to constituents the Department of Employment and Economic Development has begun its temporary compensation of an additional $600 a week for state residents seeking unemployment compensation.