Legislative Update- July 14, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

Today, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced a $100 million housing assistance program, the amount the House fought in the legislature, to help prevent evictions, prevent homelessness, and maintain housing stability for individuals and families impacted by COVID-19. The pandemic has hit families across the state hard. We hope this program will bring some relief to Minnesotans across the state who are struggling to afford their bills because of the pandemic. Applications are due by 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2020. If you or anyone you know may need assistance, please apply here.

Additional funds may become available and may be awarded through either this application process or subsequent rounds.

Special Session 2.0

The legislature gaveled in yesterday for our second special session of the year. The House DFL remains committed to completing unfinished business from the regular session — including responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and safeguarding the health and well-being of Minnesotans, enacting meaningful legislation on racial justice and police accountability, passing a robust jobs & local projects or “bonding” bill that benefits our entire state, and rebuilding our Twin Cities communities that suffered property damage during civil unrest by passing the PROMISE Act.

Senate Republicans had no problems walking away from the work last month during our first special session. Unsurprisingly, they have adjourned temporarily until next Monday, but the House is meeting tonight, and we plan to continue our work around the clock until the Senate is ready to join us.

House Resolution Declaring Racism a Public Health Crisis

A House committee today advanced a resolution declaring racism a public health crisis, with a final vote on the House floor likely to occur Monday, July 20. The resolution states that racism is embedded in the foundation of America, beginning with chattel slavery in 1619, and that much of the Black experience in America has been endured under slavery and Jim Crow, which created preferential opportunities for white people while subjecting people of color to hardships and disadvantages in every area of life. Click here to download a copy. 

Last Update

This is my last update until after the election. Whether running or not, legislators cannot use state resources for unsolicited communications during an election period because it might create an unfair advantage. I’m still available to meet via telephone, help with state-level problems, and discuss issues important to our community. Feel free to give my office a call at 651-296-4201 or email me anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn.

In solidarity,

Jay Xiong

State Representative