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Jay Xiong
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Legislative Update- February 6, 2021

2/6/2021

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Saturday, February 06, 2021



Dear Neighbors,
I hope this finds you well- and staying warm!
With the temperature dropping below zero this weekend, I wanted to bring up Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program, which helped nearly 118,000 Minnesota households pay their heating bills last year. Households with young children, people with disabilities, veterans, seniors and those experiencing unemployment or financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are especially encouraged to apply. Both renters and homeowners can qualify to get energy assistance.
New applicants have until May 31, 2021 to apply, however funding is limited and administered on a first-come, first-served basis. Households can apply for assistance with the local service provider in their area. Call  800-657-3710, and press 1, or visit the Commerce Department’s Energy Assistance Program webpage.
Here are flyers in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong:
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - English
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - Spanish
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - Somali
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - Hmong

This week, I met with a group of physicians who expressed their concerns around what they’ve been seeing with the ongoing pandemic. They shared with me general concerns for their patients who are lacking access to various, vital resources: basic insurance coverage; technology and internet; adequate transportation; and translation services. With this in mind, they expressed urgency in a more equitable approach with the COVID-19 vaccine administration. I have also heard similar concerns from many Eastsiders about lack of access to the vaccine.
My DFL POCI Caucus members have requested a meeting with Minnesota Commissioner of Health to see how we can work together and get those efforts underway for everyone in our communities.
Here’s an update from the Capitol:

Earned Sick and Safe Time for Minnesota Workers IntroducedAs we’ve learned from COVID-19, when people get sick, they should be able to stay home not just for their own health or that of a loved one, but for the health of everyone around them. This week in the House Labor Committee, a bill was presented to ensure Minnesota workers have access to Earned Sick and Safe Time. The legislation would ensure, at a minimum, one hour of paid Earned Sick and Safe Time for every 30 hours worked, up to at least 48 hours per year.
Minnesotans care about another, and we want to live in a state where our families can be healthy and safe. By securing the ability to stay home when you’re sick – without foregoing your paycheck – we can get through this pandemic as a stronger, healthier state.







Measure to Exclude White Supremacists from Police Ranks Advances in HouseThis week, the House Public Safety & Criminal Justice Reform Finance & Policy Committee advanced legislation that would require the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Board to revise the standards of conduct for peace officers prohibit officers from affiliating with,? supporting, or advocating for white supremacist groups, causes, or ideologies.? This is a necessary step forward to prevent “bad apples” from serving alongside officers who are protecting everyone in our communities, including our BIPOC neighbors on the Eastside. 

Legislation AuthoredI’m thrilled to author legislation that was introduced this week to help Eastsiders and Minnesotans during these economically challenging times:
HF 656: Dedicates state investments to Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio-Latino Communities United in Service (CLUES). CLUES is Minnesota’s largest Latino-led nonprofit organization, dedicated to ensuring the advancement of social and economic equity and wellbeing for Latinos in Minnesota. CLUES has offices on the East Side of St. Paul, Lake Street in Minneapolis, and also Willmar and Austin in rural Minnesota.
HF 655: Dedicates grant funding to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Minnesota, the organization committed to creating and supporting mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

Tax Write-offs for Minnesota TeachersThe IRS recently announced that teachers who purchased COVID-19 protective equipment last year can write them off on their 2020 taxes.
COVID-19 protective items include, but are not limited to:
  • face masks;
  • disinfectant for use against COVID-19;
  • hand soap;
  • hand sanitizer;
  • disposable gloves;
  • tape, paint or chalk to guide social distancing;
  • physical barriers (for example, clear plexiglass);
  • air purifiers; and
  • other items recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be used for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.
Learn more here.

Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201. Your feedback is important and helps me elevate our Eastside voices at the Capitol.
Have a safe weekend.
In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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February is Black History Month

2/1/2021

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February is Black History Month
Monday, February 01, 2021

 



Dear Neighbors,
The beginning of February marks an important time for all of us to reflect on Black History Month. Here's the statement my DFL POCI Caucus members and I released today:
“It is important that we take this month to not only remember and celebrate the rich and meaningful history of Black people in our nation, but to take time to consider the future of Black lives. Black history is being written as we speak, from the incredible organization of Black voters in the 2020 election which resulted in the first female Vice President of color, to the ongoing cries for reform from the historic Black Lives Matter movement. There remains a harrowing distance between the level of Black excellence in this nation, and level of systemic racism that perpetuates cycles of discrimination and increased disparities. Let this be the Black History Month where we choose to elevate Black voices and value Black lives forever more. Let this month, and every month after, be the months where we fight to create a future where Black lives can be lived fully without the burden of oppression, racism, and inequity.”


Today, House Majority Leader Winkler and DFL lawmakers introduced adult-use cannabis legislation that will address criminal justice inequities created by our current system and allow law enforcement to focus on more serious issues.
The adult-use cannabis bill would create a responsible regulatory structure focused on developing micro-businesses and a craft market; expunge most cannabis convictions; fund public health awareness, youth access prevention, and substance abuse treatment; provide grants, loans, technical assistance, and training for small businesses; require testing and labeling of products; restrict packaging based on dosage size; and allow limited home grow abilities.
I’ve been a longtime advocate and fierce supporter of legalizing adult-use cannabis legalization, which is why I’m proud to co-sponsor the measure. You can read more about the bill here.  







Ramsey County Small Business Relief Fund now accepting applicationsRamsey County Small Business Relief Fund is accepting applications from self-employed entrepreneurs or local businesses with 75 or fewer employees. Grants will provide emergency assistance to those adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Applications will be open until this Friday, Feb. 5. More information is available here.

Select Committee on Racial Justice releases final reportThe Minnesota House established the Select Committee on Racial Justice last year after the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers. On January 25, committee co-chairs Rena Moran and Ruth Richardson presented a final report to the Ways and Means committee with recommendations for addressing systemic racism. More specifically, the report calls on the Legislature to act to dismantle racism through a series of policy recommendations in areas such as economic development, housing, education, public safety, health and human services, and environmental justice.
I’m glad to see efforts are underway in the Minnesota House to close equity gaps. Click here to read the full report.





Governor Walz announces COVID-19 Recovery BudgetOn January 26, Governor Tim Walz unveiled a new two-year budget proposal that aims to help students, families, and small businesses recover from the pandemic. Speaker Hortman and Majority Leader Winkler issued statements of support. My DFL colleagues and I are committed to passing a budget that meets Minnesotans’ needs and builds back better from the pandemic.
Much of the Governor’s COVID-19 Recovery Budget align with our goals in the House DFL.


Our first priorities for 2021 are to respond to the needs of Minnesotans hurt most by the pandemic. Last week, my colleagues unveiled our latest proposals to help Minnesotans who are risking the most to keep all of us healthy and safe. Rep. Frazier announced his bill to provide 100 hours of paid emergency leave for essential workers; Rep. Wolgamott rolled out his bill to protect the health and safety of Minnesotans who work in meat and poultry processing plants; and Rep. Schultz introduced her bill to create the MinnesotaCare public option. 
These are all important lifelines for working Minnesotans, and I will continue to support them as they move through the committee process.

Keep in TouchThank you, always, for contacting me to share your input and questions. Please continue emailing and calling anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201 to let me know how I can help.
It’s an honor to serve our Eastside residents and families in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Have a great week.
In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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Legislative Update: January 23, 2021

1/23/2021

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Dear Neighbors,
 
This was an exciting and hopeful week for our country as we celebrated the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This new administration has significant challenges to face, but it’s already refreshing to see that they’re approaching these issues in a way that’s grounded in truth, transparency, compassion, and inclusiveness. I look forward to working with the Biden Administration and helping to build back better for our state and community.
 

 
Here's an update from the State Capitol:
 
Democracy for the People Act Announced in the House
On Thursday, my House colleagues introduced a legislative package called the Democracy for the People Act, which aims to build a strong, inclusive democracy that works for Minnesotans of every race, region, political party, and generation. Highlights of the package include: ensuring state and local elections officials can access the critical federal Help America Vote Act (HAVA) funds they need for election security and infrastructure; establishing automatic voter registration (with an opt out option); providing ballots in multiple languages; and closing dark money loopholes. You can read more about the Democracy for the People Act here.
 
GRAPHIC
 
Efforts to Dismantle Systemic Racism
In honor of Martin Luther King Day, I had the opportunity to join Hmong leaders early this week to speak with Rebecca Lucero, who is the Commissioner of Human Rights for the State of Minnesota about today's race challenges and how the state can address discrimination. You can view our conversation here.
 
More specifically on the legislative level, I believe we can work toward positive change in addressing systemic racism by closing opportunity gaps in our schools. One way we can do this is by having more Black, Indigenous, and teachers of color in our classrooms, so our educators are more reflective and representative of our student populations, especially on the Eastside. This is why I’ve co-sponsored legislation that would make critical investments dedicated to the training and hiring of BIPOC teachers.
 
The Boys and Girls Club is also an excellent resource for our St. Paul neighborhoods. I’ll be chief-authoring legislation to allocate funding that allows them to continue their mission providing excellent programming for our youth.
 
Committee Work
This week, in the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Finance and Reform Committee, we examined how the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board has begun to implement some measures within the police reform legislation the Legislature passed in the July 2020 special session. You can read more about what we learned from this Session Daily story, a nonpartisan publication from our House Office of Public Information.
 
Next week, in the Capital Investment Committee, we’ll be focusing on the economic impacts of racism in our communities, how capital investment projects have historically contributed to that, and how we can also use these projects to address this issue. 
 
Investing in local projects that focus on equity was something the committee was able to do last year and I’m excited to build upon that work.
 
Meeting with Advocacy Groups
It was great to meet with the Minnesota Outdoor Heritage Alliance this week, which is the largest coalition of hunting, fishing, trapping, and conservation organizations in the state. These outdoor activities have a rich history in Minnesota, and I’m glad to support their work. You can learn more about the MOHA here.
 
I also met with Minnesota-AFL-CIO, the Minnesota Nurses Association, and Minnesota Service Employees International Union (SEIU) to discuss the importance of worker access to emergency paid sick leave. This is a priority bill that’s been included in the House DFL’s COVID-19 support legislative package that we rolled out last week. I’m hopeful it will move quickly through the committee process.
 
Keystone XL Pipeline Halted
On his first day in office, President Joe Biden cancelled the cross-border permit for the Keystone XL pipeline, effectively halting its development. This is great news for our nation's environment, Indigenous rights, and landowners located along the pipeline’s route, which is why I was proud to sign on to a letter of support to the administration. You can read our letter here.
 
Keep in Touch
I appreciate hearing from you! Please never hesitate to reach out with what’s on your mind or how I can help. You can reach me via email at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or by telephone at 651-296-4201.
 
It’s an honor to serve our Eastside residents and families!
 
Enjoy the snow this weekend.
 
In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
 
 
 
 
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​Legislative Update- January 16, 2021

1/16/2021

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Saturday, January 16, 2021

Dear Neighbors, I’m pleased to share that this week, Governor Walz announced that the Minnesota Department of Revenue has issued $67.3 million in COVID-19 Business Relief Payments to 3,891 eligible businesses in Minnesota. The relief payments were part of the bipartisan legislation the Legislature passed in December to help restaurants, bars, gyms, and bowling centers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation also delivers direct funding to all of Minnesota’s 87 counties to set up local grant relief programs. Businesses that did not receive a COVID-19 Business Relief Payment but think they meet the program criteria can contact the department. An online inquiry process will be available beginning Tuesday, January 19, and will remain open through Friday, February 5. An additional round of payments will be made after that date for business that qualify. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you would like assistance.
Visiting with our Eastside Mom and Pop Eateries Thanks to the actions Minnesotans have taken over the past month, COVID-19 cases in our state are trending downward. As a result, several restrictions were relaxed earlier this week, including the reopening of indoor dining at 50 percent capacity. I had the opportunity to visit with some of our mom and pop eateries on the Eastside this week to hear about their concerns and additional needs to stay afloat. Our businesses are relying on healthy patrons and strong consumer confidence to get through and recover from these challenging times. It’s critical we protect each other, and the progress we’ve made in slowing the spread of the virus. Please continue to wear a mask, practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings, and get tested if you’re feeling sick. You can find more information about Minnesota’s response to COVID-19 at staysafe.mn.gov.
House DFL Announces First Priorities   House DFL leaders and legislators announced our first priorities for the 2021 legislative session. We introduced legislation to protect the health, safety, and economic security of Minnesotans during the pandemic and ensure that they can thrive after it ends. Other priority bills would provide financial assistance to Minnesotans who are struggling, strengthen worker protections, improve safety within long-term care settings, deliver services for those without shelter, and support students.


Locally, I met with St. Paul Public Schools Superintendent Joe Gothard to discuss goals for 2021 that can best help meet the education needs of our Eastside students who have been struggling and do not have the same resources as suburban and exurban communities in the state. Keeping our students safe is key and I support families’ decisions related to how education is delivered to their children in a way that allows safe learning to continue.
Meeting with Local Advocates While working remotely can have its challenges, it also provides enhanced opportunities to connect with folks to learn about the good work they’re doing for our community and state. This week I met with community leaders belonging to the Coalition of Asian American Leaders. Like many other Minnesotans, the pandemic has impacted our Asian American Pacific Islander community hard. We know inequities have been exacerbated in this pandemic and I’m working with stakeholders and these leaders and others to tackle disparities facing the Eastside. I also connected with organizers from Better Futures Minnesota, a nonprofit organization aiming to help connect folks to good jobs, a safe home, health care and other services. I’m working on drafting future legislation with them; stay tuned on our progress. Once introduced, you can find the bills I’ve drafted here. Another opportunity I participated in was a meeting with the Minnesota Department of Corrections to discuss juvenile justice reform. In particular, I’m looking forward to a holistic approach with meaningful policies that provide alternatives that help keep youth out of trouble.
Vaccine Distribution Update As COVID-19 continues to impact us, there is light is at the end of the tunnel with the vaccine now being distributed in phases, starting with health care workers and long-term care residents. This week, the state of Minnesota launched a new COVID-19 Data Dashboard to provide a more visual and user-friendly way to view key vaccination data for our state. The dashboard includes information on the number of vaccine doses allocated to the state by the federal government, the number shipped to Minnesota providers, and the number ultimately administered to Minnesotans. The data will be updated daily at 11:00 a.m.



Keep in Touch Please contact me anytime with feedback or questions at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201. I’m grateful for the opportunity to provide any assistance if you need it. Stay safe and well this weekend, Eastsiders. In solidarity, Jay Xiong State Representative

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Legislative Update- January 9, 2021

1/9/2021

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Legislative Update- January 9, 2021
Saturday, January 09, 2021



Dear Neighbors,
The deadly rioting we all witnessed at our nation’s Capitol this week was a travesty. Sadly, in many ways, we have all anticipated that this day was coming after multiple incitements of violence and words of encouragement to engage in domestic terrorism from President Trump.  
Despite the harrowing display of disunity and insurrection, I am hopeful for our country's future. What ugly actions unfolded today indeed do not reflect the better angels of our nation's soul. And we are a resilient people. We have led the world out of two world wars and have sprung from the ashes of our own civil war a better nation than was founded. There are far more beautiful, strong and committed leaders who are determined to help shape our country's future in more meaningful ways and through more hopeful futures. I cannot be prouder than to stand with a crop of legislators in our state who are not just dedicated to that future, but also better reflect what our communities look like. We can't wait to hit the ground running to uplift all of Minnesota here in St. Paul and all across the state.







COVID-19 Guidance: Dials TurningThis week, Governor Tim Walz announced that certain restrictions on various activities and businesses will be relaxed starting Monday, January 11. The governor pointed to improvements in several metrics, including case counts and hospital capacity, as well as the distribution of the vaccine. The changes include the following:
  • Indoor dining at bars and restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity, with a maximum of 150 people. Parties of no more than six people must remain six feet from other parties; bar seating is open to parties of two; reservations are required; and establishments must close dine-in service by 10 p.m.
  • Gym capacity remains capped at 25 percent but maximum capacity increases to 150 and classes can increase to 25 people, assuming distancing can be observed. Machines and people must maintain nine- feet of distance. Face coverings are required.
  • Outdoor events and entertainment continue at 25 percent capacity, but maximum capacity increases to 250 people. Social distancing is required.
  • Indoor events and entertainment – like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums – may open at 25 percent, with no more than 150 people in each area of the venue. Face coverings are required, and they may not offer food service after 10 p.m.
  • Youth and adult organized sports have resumed practice as of January 4 and games resume January 14 with spectators, following the appropriate capacity limits for indoor or outdoor venues. Inter-region tournaments and out of state play are discouraged.
  • Places of worship remain open at 50% capacity but without an overall maximum capacity.






With vaccine administration already underway (over 100,000 Minnesotans have received the initial dose), we can finally see the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel. However, it’s still critically important we continue to follow public health guidelines by masking up, washing our hands frequently, maintaining a safe distance from others, avoiding large groups and gatherings, getting tested if we feel sick, and staying home when we can.

Committee AssignmentsI’m pleased to share I’ll be serving on the following committees this biennium: Capital Investment; Legacy Finance; and Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Finance & Policy . I’ll also be serving as the vice chair of the newly established Workforce and Business Development Finance & Policy Committee. In this new role, I will fiercely advocate for statewide strategies, such as the PROMISE Act, to help our Eastside businesses rebuild as they continue to struggle from the civil unrest last summer.

Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201 with input or questions. I’m grateful for the opportunity to provide any assistance needed.
If you know of anyone in our Eastside community who may be interested in receiving these email newsletters please share this link with you neighbors, coworkers, and friends.
Thank you for the honor of serving you in the Minnesota House.
In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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UPDATE: Unemployment assistance now available to student workers

12/21/2020

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Monday, December 21, 2020



Dear Neighbors,
I wanted to follow up with you on recent news related to student workers’ eligibility to earn unemployment benefits.
As I’ve previously mentioned in past updates, since the onset of the pandemic, high school students were initially deemed ineligible for unemployment insurance benefits under state law. The Minnesota Court of Appeals disagreed, and recently ruled that the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, under the federal CARES Act, does in fact apply to student workers.
Many of our students work hard and long hours to contribute to their family’s income, especially in our community. Unemployment benefits are now available for students whose employment was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and payments are being made retroactively. Student workers are encouraged to apply at www.uimn.org before December 26. More information is available from Youthprise.

Town Hall Reminder- Tonight!A friendly reminder to join us on tonight at 6:30 p.m. for a pre-session virtual town hall on Facebook. You can tune in here.
Those who have confirmed joining us include Representative-Elect John Thompson, Metropolitan Council Member Chai Lee, Ramsey County Commissioner Jim McDonough, City Council Member Jane Prince and City Council Member Nelsie Yang.
Please RSVP and submit questions ahead of time here. All are welcome!







Keep in TouchPlease reach out anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201 with thoughts, ideas, or questions. Let me know how I can help during these challenging times.
Stay safe, Eastsiders.






In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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Legislative Update- December 15, 2020

12/15/2020

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Tuesday, December 15, 2020



Dear Neighbors,
Late yesterday, the Minnesota Legislature approved a new economic assistance package designed to help small businesses and workers struggling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation includes direct financial assistance to the hardest hit businesses and helps protect economic security for workers by extending unemployment benefits.
Key components of the assistance bill would:
  • Extend Unemployment Benefits: Provides up to 13 additional weeks in unemployment benefits for MN workers who have exhausted all federal and state benefits. There are an estimated 100,000 MN workers who could qualify for this extension, showing how needed this extension is.
  • Business Assistance Grants: Provides $216.5 million from the General Fund in grants to restaurants, bars, gyms, theaters and many other entities directly affected by the executive orders and the pandemic. It is estimated that these grants will be able to assist over 6,000 businesses that have been hurt by Covid-19.
  • Certain Fees Waived for Hospitality Industry: This is another straight-forward practical action we can take to help ease the financial burden our local businesses are facing. While this is a smaller portion of the total relief, it should go a long way towards helping these vulnerable businesses.
Unfortunately, Senate Republicans would not agree to advance a more robust funding package to address housing insecurity during the pandemic, childcare grants, and direct financial assistance to struggling families. This is deeply disappointing, especially for our Eastside families and neighbors who are struggling. I’m in constant communication with our Minnesota congressional delegation for updates about any progress on passing the survival and relief mechanisms we need from the federal government now. We can’t wait any longer.
 

COVID-19 Vaccination Distribution PlanAhead of the vaccine shipments to Minnesota, last week Governor Walz announced our state’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan. The goal is to quickly, equitably, and safely deliver the vaccine to anyone who wants one at no cost. The first to receive the vaccine in Minnesota will be health care workers and long-term care residents, who would then be followed by essential workers, seniors, and people with preexisting conditions that are more likely to become seriously ill with this virus.
The arrival of the vaccine is incredibly good news, but we’re still a long way from it becoming available to all who want one. In the meantime, it’s important that we continue adhering to the public health guidelines that have kept our communities safe - social distancing, hand washing, wearing a mask, and getting tested when we feel sick.

Upcoming Virtual Town HallOn Monday, December 21 at 6:30 p.m., District 67 state legislators will join forces with our city and county officials for a pre-session virtual town hall on Facebook. You can tune in here.
Those who have confirmed joining us include Representative-Elect John Thompson, Metropolitan Council Member Chai Lee, Ramsey County Commissioner Jim McDonough, City Council Member Jane Prince and City Council Member Nelsie Yang.
Please RSVP and submit questions ahead of time here. All are welcome!







Keep in TouchPlease never hesitate to reach out at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn with your thoughts, ideas, or questions. Give me a call at 651-296-4201 or send an email if you need any help or I can be of any assistance.
It’s an honor to serve our Eastside neighbors and families at the Legislature. Thank you.
In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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Legislative Update- December 5, 2020

12/5/2020

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Dear Neighbors,
I hope this finds you and yours well and staying safe.
Here’s news from the State Capitol:
State Economic OutlookMinnesota Management and Budget (MMB) announced new economic projections this week that show Minnesota is well positioned to provide immediate economic aid to workers and small businesses. It’s clearer than ever that the COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the structural inequities of our political and economic systems. Billionaires and corporations are getting richer, but working families are living paycheck to paycheck. We need to do better in Minnesota, which is why House DFLers and the governor proposed a ‘bridge’ economic relief package until we can get more urgently needed federal aid.
Our proposal would:
  • Keep Small Businesses Afloat 
    • Provide direct aid to businesses through Business Assistance Program 
    • Waive State and regulatory fees for bars, restaurants, event centers, craft breweries, and more
    • Establish eviction moratorium so small businesses can stay in their locations
  • Support Workers Struggling to Get By
    • Extend unemployment benefits for an additional 13 weeks, helping as many as 100,000 workers whose benefits currently end late December
    • Provide a $500 one-time emergency payment to struggling families
  • Help Minnesota Families Put Food on the Table
    • Establish one-time grant to restaurants to provide food for healthcare workers, homeless shelters, and long-term care facilities
    • Provide a tax credit for businesses that donate food that would otherwise spoil or be thrown away 
 
I am cautiously optimistic House and Senate Republicans will join us in passing a robust and comprehensive relief package as soon as possible. The next special session is slated to begin December 14 or earlier if an agreement can be reached.







Housing Assistance Available- Apply TodayThis week, Governor Walz highlighted efforts to support Minnesotans experiencing homelessness and ensure Minnesotans can afford to stay in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are encouraging Minnesotans who are behind on their rent, mortgage, or utility payments to apply for the Administration’s Housing Assistance Program by Monday, December 7, 2020.
Additionally, Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program received more than $106 million in federal funding to help income-eligible Minnesotans pay their heating bills this winter. Minnesotans should submit an application to the local service provider in their area. To find your local service provider, call 800-657-3710 or visit the Commerce Department’s Energy Assistance Program webpage.

Fresh Dinner Boxes AvailableA big thank you to the Sanneh Foundation, East Side Table and Southeast Community Organization for providing fresh dinner boxes to anyone who identifies as being low income. Each box contains about 10 pounds of fresh produce, meat, pantry staples and recipes for up to 12 people. Distribution will take place on every Wednesday afternoon in December.


Please wear a mask when picking up. Food is available until it runs out.
 

Unemployment InsuranceUnder the federal CARES Act, the federal government authorized (and paid for) 13 additional weeks in benefits for unemployed workers who exhaust their 26 weeks of state benefits. This is slated to expire at the end of the month, which is why it’s so important for us to take action on the state level immediately. Under Minnesota law, high school students, under most circumstances, are not able to receive standard benefits. I continue working to change that with my colleagues at the legislature. Please visit https://www.uimn.org/ to learn more about your options for unemployment insurance.
 

Preventative Action for At-Risk Asian YouthCurrently, there are no funded culturally and linguistically appropriate programs for At-Risk Southeast Asian Youth of recently arrived refugee families in Minnesota. In Saint Paul, many Karen and Karenni youth who are at-risk reside predominately in Frogtown, North End, Payne-Phalen, Dayton’s Bluff, the Greater Eastside and Battle Creek neighborhoods.
Do you have stories to share to help bring awareness to this important issue? Twelve St. Paul community members have teamed up with a variety of community organizations to mobilize and develop a program called AYO Asian Youth Outreach. You can learn more about how to get involved by emailing AYOminnesota@gmail.com.

 
 Keep in TouchPlease continue to contact me anytime to let me know how I can provide assistance at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or at 651-296-4201. I’m grateful for the opportunity to answer questions and be a resource if you need help.
Thank you for honor of serving our Eastside residents and families.
In solidarity,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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COVID-19 Resources for Eastsiders

11/20/2020

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Friday, November 20, 2020



Dear Neighbors,
I hope you’re staying well and safe.
With COVID-19 cases spiking, hospitals full, healthcare worker shortages rampant, and Minnesota’s death toll passed 3,000, it’s essential we take united action together on combatting the spread. In response, Governor Walz is asking Minnesotans to hit pause on social activities, in-person gatherings, sports, and gyms- where we are seeing the largest rate of transmission- for four weeks.









Earlier this year, Congress approved the CARES Act to provide needed economic relief to Minnesotans. These dollars are being used to provide housing assistance to renters and homeowners, financial relief to child care providers and small businesses, as well as to purchase critical medical supplies and PPE for our front-line workers. The need for an additional robust pandemic response in Minnesota will continue well into 2021. I’ve joined my colleagues and the governor in urging quick approval of a new federal COVID relief package so that we can continue our efforts in Minnesota to combat the virus and help weather these economic storms.

Additional Resources for Eastsiders 
Up to $5000 from East Side Funders Group Small Business Covid-19 Relief Fund. The purpose of this fund is to provide COVID-19 relief grants to small businesses on the East Side of Saint Paul that have BIPOC ownership or a majority of BIPOC employees. See details and registration here.
 
Public Health Grant Program for Disability Services Providers created to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to people with disabilities and staff who support them. See details here.
 
UPDATED COVID-19 Waiver to Extend Eligibility for Refugee Cash Assistance. Details found here.
 
Landlord Assistance: Landlords may be eligible to receive a one-time grant for up to $20,000 per rental unit for tenants missed payment.  To learn more about it, please visit here.
 
Safe at the Winter Farmers' Market Cost-Share Program provides financial assistance to Minnesota farmers’ markets operating in the winter months to purchase supplies to keep markets, vendors, and customers safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. See details here.
 
Youth and Young Adult Employment Community Conversation hosted by Ramsey County is an online community conversation about youth and young adult employment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Find details here.
 
Think Small has COVID-19 Resources and Information for Child Care Providers and Parents that can be found here. Information includes assistance with housing, schooling etc.
 
Under the Emergency Solutions Grant-COVID (ESG-CV) funds, Ramsey County, through Heading Home Ramsey (HHR), is soliciting Letters of Interest (LOI) from providers who have experience in providing street outreach and/or rapid rehousing services to households experiencing homelessness in Ramsey County. More information on the website here and read the detailed Notice here.



FOOD  
Thanksgiving Food Distribution for everyone through the Union Gospel. Registration and details can be found here.
 
Ramsey County has a community resource page here that includes information about food, employment, technology and more.
 
Free home meal delivery available for people impacted by COVID-19. If you are a Ramsey County resident and have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible to have up to 21 prepared meals delivered to your home for free each week. Details can be found here.

Stay in TouchPromising news about an effective vaccine is encouraging, but public health experts and vaccine producers are telling us that widespread distribution will not happen until well into 2021. In the meantime, we should follow public health guidelines to protect one another: staying home when we can; wearing a mask; washing our hands frequently; distancing socially; and getting tested.  
Please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime if you need help or have any questions at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201.
It’s an honor to serve you and our Eastside community at the State Capitol. My best wishes for a holiday filled with health and happiness.
Sincerely,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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New Executive Action on COVID-19

11/13/2020

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New Executive Action on COVID-19
Friday, November 13, 2020



Dear Neighbors,
I hope this finds you and yours staying well and warm. I’d like to extend a big thank you for allowing me to continue my work for the Eastside in the Minnesota House of Representatives for another two-year term. It’s an incredible honor to serve our neighborhoods at the State Capitol, and I’ll continue to fight for you and work with you to help us get through these challenging times.
Here’s an update from the Capitol:

New Executive Action on COVID-19Though the promising news of a viable vaccine gives us hope, we are currently facing critical care bed and health care worker shortages as Minnesota continues to see a surge in positive cases. This week Governor Walz announced new safety restrictions on bars, restaurants, and social gatherings. 




Bars and restaurants will have new capacity regulations, as well as a curfew starting today, and there will be a 10-person limit for indoor and outdoor social gatherings. For larger events, such as weddings and funerals, there is a 50-person limit starting on November 27, and a 25-person limit starting December 11. These new restrictions are far from ideal, especially for our local businesses that have been struggling since the onset of COVID-19 and the civil unrest after the murder of George Floyd. These measures will help to ensure Minnesotans remain safe and healthy. It’s critical that we all do our part to follow public health and safety guidelines, including wearing masks in all indoor public settings and getting tested when sick.
Additional locations and different forms of COVID testing, like saliva testing, are now available in Minnesota. In Saint Paul, there’s free saliva testing site at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium, adjacent to Saint Paul RiverCentre. Due to expected demand, testing will be available seven days a week, noon to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. Appointments can be made through the Vault Health registration site.



Largest Bonding Bill in State History Signed into LawLast month, the Minnesota Legislature passed a robust and bipartisan Jobs & Local Projects and Critical Economic Development bill with investments in infrastructure and economic stimulus to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic. Among other items, the legislation contains $1.879 billion toward public assets such as higher education institutions, clean water infrastructure, transportation, parks, trails, and funding for underserved communities.
I had the opportunity to work with House Capital Investment Vice-Chair Fue Lee to secure $30 million in the package dedicated to equity, which includes funding for projects important to people of color and Indigenous communities. Of note, the Hmong American Farmers’ Association will receive $ 2 million in equity bond funding for the first time. The bill also contains a new policy requiring diversity hiring goals and equal pay for state bond-funded projects.
I’m also pleased to announce we were able to finally secure funding to fix the Kellogg Street Bridge! The Wakan Tipi Center and Metro State University also received dedicated bond funding. Elsewhere in St. Paul, the bill funds the Como Park Zoo, the Humanities Center, the Playwrights’ Center, Victoria Theatre, the Hmong Plaza, and the Minnesota Museum of American Art.
We also secured $116 million in bonding for public housing rehabilitation and new housing infrastructure. A full list of projects included in the bill can be accessed here.

Special Sessions ContinueSince we adjourned the regular session at the end of May, the Minnesota Legislature has consistently met every thirty days to renew the Governor’s emergency peacetime orders. The peacetime state of emergency has allowed Governor Walz to open the state’s toolbox and take quick, decisive action to protect Minnesotans through the COVID-19 pandemic.
An extension will ensure that Minnesotans continue to receive much-needed support and relief as the situation continues to change. It’s deeply disappointing Republicans are willing to risk Minnesotans’ lives in order to “get back to normal.” While the pandemic has demanded sacrifices from all of us and people all over the world, it won’t go away just because we’d like it to. We need to be listening to public health experts, like my legislative colleague who is also a frontline doctor fighting the virus. She spoke yesterday about her firsthand experience in the ER and you can listen here.

Stay in TouchWith the election over, I can now return to regularly sending out these legislative updates, which you can subscribe to here is you haven’t already. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at rep.jay,xiong@house.mn or give my office a call at  (651) 296-4201. I’m grateful for the opportunity to provide assistance anytime I can.
Please stay safe.
Sincerely,
Jay Xiong
State Representative
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