Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan Update: June 23, 2020

June 23, 2020

Updates from the Governor

Governor Walz today announced the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development is now accepting applications for the $62.5 million Small Business Relief Grants Program for businesses impacted by COVID-19.

Eligible businesses with 50 or fewer employees may apply for grants of up to $10,000. The application period will be open for 10 days, the maximum time allowed by the law, and will close at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2. A randomized, computer-generated lottery process will be used – in consultation with the Minnesota Lottery and observed by an independent third party – to select eligible businesses that will receive funding.

Governor Walz today also signed six bills into law, including measures to increase reimbursement rates for child care providers, prohibit schools from suspending prekindergarten students, increase vaping prevention instruction, and require all teachers to have annual mental health training.

“I’m proud to sign this bipartisan legislation to make our schools a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for all Minnesota students and bring child care relief to working families across the state,” said Governor Walz. “Together, these bills will use federal funding to support the child care industry and help ensure our little ones get the high-quality education and support they deserve.”

“The bills signed today will make a huge difference for our littlest Minnesotans,” said Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. “By eliminating prekindergarten suspensions and increasing child care assistance for child care providers across the state, we are investing in equity for low-income families and families of color.”

Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19

  • Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic wearing masks helps control the virus and has been shown to lower COVID-19 spread.
  • Avoid enclosed spaces with groups of people, where the virus can linger in the air for long periods of time.
  • Get tested if you have cold or flu-like symptoms – Find testing locations.
  • Stay six feet away from others.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or sleeve, or a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterwards.
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
  • Up-to-date guidance is available from the Department of Health.

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