As the Legislature continues distance protections against COVID, I have been attending committee meetings virtually and working part time in my office at the Capitol.
Both the Health Finance and Policy committee and the Human Services Finance and Policy committee have started reviews of both the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the Department of Human Services (DHS), both how they are operating and managing services and how money is being spent in response to COVID-19.
In the Industrial Education and Economic Development Finance and Policy committee, we heard about career and technology education and how we can help students be prepared for jobs right out of high school or shortly after.
If you have questions or concerns about an issue relating to state government, please don’t hesitate to contact my office!
Local Business Grants
The MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) released applications recently for Movie Theater and Convention Center Grants which were established in the recent state COVID-19 relief bill.
The links to applications and information on the three new programs included in Minnesota’s small business relief package, signed into law December 16, are:
- Minnesota Convention Center Relief Grant Program – This temporary program was established to provide economic relief for convention centers adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This program will make grants of up to $500,000 to eligible convention centers located in Minnesota. DEED will administer this program. All convention centers interested in receiving a relief grant must submit a completed application by Jan. 29. Applications are available here.
- Minnesota Movie Theater Relief Grant Program – This temporary program was established to provide economic relief for movie theaters adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This program will make grants of up to $150,000 to eligible movie theaters located in Minnesota. DEED will administer this program. All movie theaters interested in receiving a relief grant must submit a completed application by Jan. 29. Applications are available here.
- County Relief Program – We are working closely with Minnesota counties to disburse money. All counties must apply. More information is available here.
Support Local Restaurants
Following last week’s Executive Order, restaurants across the state opened for indoor dining. I would encourage everyone to get out and support our great local restaurants. Local businesses need our help, and I look forward to seeing our community step up to support them once again!
Please Contact Me
It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. I am here to serve you!
Deb Kiel
