Greetings District 10!
Many thanks to the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, the 9/11 Global War on Terrorism Task Force, and the Minnesota Military Museum for marking the 20th anniversary of 9/11 with an event at the Minnesota State Capitol. The 9/11 Day of Remembrance memorialized those impacted and focused on bringing the community together through a message of hope, unity, and resilience. We remembered those we lost that day and the many who died fighting the Global War on Terrorism. It was truly an honor to participate!
President Biden’s Vaccine Mandates
Last weeks announcement from President Joe Biden regarding sweeping vaccine mandates on upwards of 100 million Americans has divided our country, which is the last thing we need. The mandates require businesses with over 100 employees to track vaccine status and require testing for unvaccinated workers, with significant fines for businesses that do not comply.
President Biden’s vaccine mandates are unreasonable…it is exceptionally cruel to make employees choose between keeping their job or a vaccine, and it’s just as cruel to put businesses in the position of collecting confidential medical information. As businesses continue to bounce back from the pandemic, there is already a struggle to find workers and mandates will make it more difficult for businesses and the economy to recover.
Reopening our economy and getting people back to work needs fewer mandates, not more. Vaccination should be a personal choice, with decisions made in the context of what is best for you and your family.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources—Fire Restrictions Update
Continued favorable weather has improved wildfire risk for much of northern Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is removing fire restrictions in 14 counties. Beginning Wednesday, September 15 burning restrictions will be lifted in Beltrami, Becker, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Ottertail, St. Louis, Roseau, and Wadena counties. However, the wildfire risk remains in the northeastern tip of Minnesota. Class III burning restrictions remain in effect for Cook and Lake counties: Restrictions
Main Street Business Grants
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will begin accepting applications for the Main Street COVID Relief Grants Program on September 20th. This program was approved by the Legislature earlier this year.
A total of $64,200,000 is available in grants for Minnesota businesses that can demonstrate financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funding will be distributed in a 50/50 split between the Twin Cities metro area and Greater Minnesota.
Successful applicants will receive a grant amount between $10,000 and $25,000 based on the number of full-time equivalent employees on staff. Additional eligibility requirements and application information can be found at DEED’s Main Street COVID Relief Grants Program page: Main Street Business Grants
Also, a webinar has been scheduled to discuss this program in more detail. You can join at the following link: Monday, September 20 at 10:00am.
MN Department of Natural Resources—Zebra Mussels in Crow Wing County
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed zebra mussels in Smith Lake, near Garrison in Crow Wing County. Barbour Lake, Holt Lake and Seguchie Creek, connected to Smith Lake, will also be listed for zebra mussels.
The DNR received a report of zebra mussels attached to kayaks used in Smith Lake. A DNR invasive species specialist found numerous quarter-inch zebra mussels in three areas of the lake.
Whether or not a lake has any invasive species, Minnesota law requires boaters and anglers to:
– Clean watercraft & trailers of aquatic plants and prohibited invasive species
– Drain all water by removing drain plugs and keeping them out during transport
– Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash
Some invasive species are small and difficult to see at the access. To remove or kill them, following precautions before moving to another body of water:
– Spray with high-pressure water
– Rinse with hot water (120 degrees for two minutes)
– Dry for at least five days
Zebra mussels can compete with native species for food and habitat, cut the feet of swimmers, reduce the performance of boat motors and cause expensive damage to water intake pipes.
Anyone who suspects a new infestation of an aquatic invasive plant or animal should note the exact location, take a photo or keep the specimen, and contact a Minnesota DNR aquatic invasive species specialist. More Informaton: Aquatic Invasive Species
Thank you for taking the time to read my legislative update. If you’re looking to hear more from the Capitol, please like me on Facebook.
As always please feel free to contact my office with any questions you might have. My office can be reached by phone at (651) 296-4913 or at sen.carrie.ruud@senate.mn.
Talk to you soon!
Carrie Ruud