A COVID assistance package proposed in the Republican-controlled state Senate would send 30 million dollars to renters and homeowners in Minnesota facing financial hardships. It also would not allow Governor Tim Walz’s moratorium on evictions to go past June 24th without lawmakers’ approval, which backers say will provide clarity to landlords. Elbow Lake Republican Torrey Westrom says, “It’s time for the governor to act on this, so we can get this important package and assistance for homeowners, tenants… having rent unpaid or utilities unpaid. But this package would even reach to those with mortgage concerns.”
Democrats in the Minnesota House propose 100 million dollars in housing assistance for homeowners and renters — and also landlords. But they say Republicans are holding that bill hostage because they oppose the governor’s moratorium on evictions.