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Arts board announces simplified grant program for MN artists struggling in COVID-19 economy
The Minnesota State Arts Board has approved a trio of new grants meant to help artists and organizations weather the economic turmoil created by COVID-19. But artists say the new grants don't go far enough to serve historically marginalized communities.
July 22 update on COVID-19 in MN: Walz unveils statewide mask order
“This is the quickest way to ending the COVID pandemic” and returning to the “life that we all miss so much,” Gov. Tim Walz told reporters of his statewide order requiring Minnesotans to wear masks in restaurants, stores and other public indoor gathering spaces, starting Saturday.
Minnesota food shelves, already busy, brace for bigger demand
The COVID-19 pandemic has created huge demand for free or reduced-cost food across the state as Minnesotans have lost jobs and children missed out on school lunches. Food shelves anticipate even more people will rely on them to get enough to eat.
DEED commissioner: Other aid, jobs available to Minnesotans if $600 unemployment boost expires
Commissioner Steve Grove also says unemployment insurance remains available to parents who have to reduce their hours or stop working if schools don’t reopen in the fall.
Democrats say policing bill is just first step
A police accountability bill passed by the House and Senate early Tuesday morning is just a first step, DFL legislative leaders said, but Republican leaders said any further changes would need to wait until next year.
Trouble with rent? Here's how to get help during the pandemic
The coronavirus effect on the economy has left many struggling to keep up with rent and mortgage payments. MPR News reached out to housing assistance experts to get some advice on what to do if you can’t keep up when rent is due.
July 21 update on COVID-19 in MN: Walz lauds drop in long-term care deaths; hospitalizations rise
A state “battle plan” to safeguard Minnesotans living in long-term care facilities is paying off, Gov. Tim Walz said Tuesday. The governor took reporter questions on a range of COVID-19 issues, including schools and a possible statewide mask order.