July 16, 2020
Updates from the Governor
Today, Governor Walz visited a flood improvement project along Highway 93 in Henderson, Minnesota to highlight the urgent need to pass the Governor’s Local Jobs and Projects Plan. Flooding in the Minnesota River Valley has created challenges for the community for decades, and the city of Henderson has been hit especially hard in recent years with area road closures reaching an all-time high. Investments in projects like these can’t wait.
The Local Jobs and Projects Plan is a key part of the Governor and Lt. Governor’s strategy to come out of COVID-19 with a stronger and more equitable economy. These projects bring economic opportunity and revitalize communities by providing immediate, high-quality jobs, boosting the economy in the short term, and keeping our infrastructure strong for future generations.
The Governor continues to make progress on an agreement with the House and Senate to pass a strong bonding bill focused on public safety, water infrastructure, housing and higher education that meets the needs of Minnesotans across the state. With interest rates low, and Minnesotans ready to get to work, now is the time to pass a robust Local Jobs and Projects Plan and provide critical investments in our communities.
Unemployment Insurance Reminder
Reminder: The last week that the additional $600 in weekly federal unemployment insurance will be paid is the week ending on July 25. You can find additional state and community resources at mn.gov/covid19/gethelp. Minnesotans who remain eligible for unemployment or PUA will still receive their normal payment – but after July 25, the additional $600 federal benefit expires.
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.
Resources
- Visit mn.gov/covid19 to learn more about Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response and Preparation
- Find a testing location in your community
- CDC Situation Updates
- Apply for Unemployment Insurance
- Minnesota Department of Health Updates
- About COVID-19