The Minnesota Legislature passed a $216 million business relief package at this week’s special session. This funding package is broken down into three components - $88 million in direct relief payments from the Department of Revenue to businesses closed as a result of the current “Pause”, $114 million to Minnesota counties to support businesses, and $14 million in direct relief payments from Department of Employment and Economic Development for movie theaters and convention centers. Included with the funding support were waivers to State fees and extension of unemployment benefits. More information will be coming out soon. Below are more details on what is known now.
Direct Payments to Businesses The Department of Revenue shared the following information on the pool of $88 million for direct business relief. Payments range from $10,000 to $45,000, depending on the number of employees. Eligible Businesses This program provides direct payments to businesses required to temporarily close or reduce services in November under Executive Order 20-99. Businesses in the following categories, as reported by the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance program, may be eligible:
EMPLOYEES (FULL- AND PART-TIME)
Payment Process
Business Supports to Minnesota Counties Minnesota Counties will receive $114 million to be then distributed to businesses within the county. The amount each County receives will be through a formula. More information will come out when Hennepin County provides details on its allocation. Businesses can receive relief dollars both from the direct funds through the Department of Revenue listed above and through the county relief program. Direct Aid to Movie Theaters and Convention Centers The Department of Employment and Economic Development will award $14 million in grants to assist movie theaters and convention centers.
Regulatory Relief The Department of Agriculture will create a program to waive the late fees if a licensed food retailer, manufacturer, wholesaler, or broker renews their license after the applicable deadline in 2021.
Additional Unemployment Benefits Provides up to 13 weeks of additional special unemployment benefits to individuals who exhausts their regular unemployment benefits, state, federal extended benefits, and not receiving benefits under CARES Act, other federal employment extension benefits, or any other extension benefits at the state or federal levels.
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