Walz to release $841 million in COVID-19 aid to local governments

Legislators failed to pass distribution plan during recent special session.

Gov. Tim Walz is moving to send out $841 million in federal aid to counties, cities and townships hit hard by COVID-19 after legislators failed to strike a deal to distribute the funds during a recent special session.

Walz announced the plan Thursday, nearly a week after lawmakers adjourned the session while at a partisan impasse over police accountability measures, a bonding bill and the federal aid. Without action, local governments were unable to tap into the funding to boost services during the coronavirus pandemic.

“This funding will bring much-needed relief to communities across the state as we continue to battle this pandemic together,” Walz said in a statement announcing his decision. Continue reading.