FromTheDomeAs you've likely seen, state/federal/local governments are considering a number of policy options to support businesses during these unprecedented times. Greater Mankato Growth will do all we can to keep our business community up to date on the latest developments via this blog page and our COVID-19 resources page. Check back frequently as the policy situation is rapidly evolving.In addition, Greater Mankato Growth in partnership with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is taking proactive measures to advocate for business support measures. This morning Greater Mankato Growth signed onto a letter with our chamber colleagues from across the state asking the state of Minnesota to do the following:

This morning, March 17th, the U.S. Small Business Administration held a webinar on the current status of SBA funding for businesses impacted by the COVID-19 virus.The main funding tool is SBA Disaster Assistance loan for working capital to small businesses. The size of a business, by SBA definition, is dependent on industry, revenue, and employees on payroll. A vast majority of Greater Mankato businesses would meet the criteria, as well as non-profits.

Greater Mankato Growth in coordination with the Regional Economic Development parnters (Eagle Lake, Lake Crystal, Mankato, North Mankato, St. Peter, and Blue Earth and Nicollet Counties), is monitoring updates to legislation (State and Federal) which would provide resources for businesses as they deal with the impacts of COVID-19.To assist Greater Mankato Growth, we are asking area businesses to complete the following survey (4 minute length) so we can continue to provide useful information to our partners and businesses:  https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5502344/Covid-19-and-Greater-Mankato

FromTheDomeUPDATED: The US Senate has passed an amended version of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (HR 6201) with a bipartisan vote thus sending it to President Trump for his signature, who has indicated he will sign. Below is an update to the paid leave provisions contained in the final bill, which changed significantly from the bill originally passed by the House. 

The legislation guarantees free coronavirus testing, enhances Unemployment Insurance, strengthens food security initiatives, and increases federal Medicaid funding to states. In addition, the legislation creates two new paid leave programs that every business under 500 employees and all government employers must implement for their employees 15 days after enactment. Below is a HR 6201 Summary of those new programs. Please don't hesitate to contact Patrick Baker ([email protected]) with any questions.

Our friends at Blethen | Berens have also created a summary of the new law you can access here.

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