MCCE COVID-19

COVID-19 vaccine resources for businesses

COVID-19 vaccine eligibility changed recently; how can you help your employees get vaccinated? Find useful tools for your business on the Chamber's website. This guide contains state-specific resources for employers as well as answers to common human resources questions related to vaccines.

READ MORE

Needed relief on the way for businesses

This week, the Legislature passed bipartisan legislation providing $216 million in grants to businesses impacted by COVID-19. Governor Walz signed the bill into law. The legislation includes: 

• $88 million will be sent in direct payments to businesses.
  • Grants will vary from $10,000 up to $45,000 based on employee count.
• $14 million for movie theaters and convention centers processed by DEED.
• $114.8 million in business grants sent to counties for grants to be provided to for-profit and non-profit businesses.
• An additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits for individuals.
• Employers will not have an increase in experience rating for unemployment insurance.
• Waiver of license renewal penalties by commissioner of agriculture for food retailers, food manufacturers, wholesalers and brokers.
• Waiver of certain liquor permit fees.

This is welcome news for Minnesota businesses. The Chamber played a pivotal role in getting this aid passed and into the hands of employers and employees. The continued closures and restrictions have created hardships for thousands of employers and employees alike. The bipartisan agreement is meant as a temporary bridge to help keep the doors open for small businesses. The Chamber will continue to advocate for additional business relief when the legislative session kicks off next month.

Head to the Chamber's COVID-19 Business Toolkit Funding - Loans and Grants section to find out more details from the Department of Revenue on eligibility and payments.