The Minnesota Disaster Recovery Loan Program is now accessible to farmers who are suffering financial damages related to the COVID-19 outbreak after the Legislature expanded access to the funds.

Legislative approval of a bill March 26 increased program flexibility, providing a resource to farmers for expenses not covered by insurance.

Our farmers are really struggling and the more tools they have at their disposal, the better. This simple change will allow for greater discretion while maintaining boundaries to ensure these funds are used appropriately. We need to apply common sense wherever possible in efforts to combat COVID-19 and that is what this change is all about. I hope increased flexibility with this program helps keep our farmers keep moving because, as far as workers go, they are as essential as they come for our society in general.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) indicates program dollars can be used to “replace livestock or flocks, make building improvements, or cover the loss of revenue. Loan proceeds may also be used to repair or replace septic and water systems, and replace destroyed agricultural buildings.”

The program is coordinated by the Rural Finance Authority (RFA) and farmers will work through their local lenders to secure financing. The MDA reports the RFA participation in a qualifying loan is limited to 45 percent of the principal amount, up to $200,000. Other terms, conditions and qualification standards apply and can be found at the MDA website, or by calling (651) 201-6666.

Workers’ Compensation

The Minnesota House on approved legislation Tuesday ensuring first responders receive their full workers’ compensation benefits and coverage in the event they test positive for COVID-19.

The move addresses concerns that damages suffered from the virus would not be covered by the state’s current no-fault workers’ compensation system, a form of insurance that provides salary replacement and medical benefits for workers injured in the course of their jobs.

If a front-line worker contracts COVID-19 in their efforts to combat the virus, they should be protected by worker’s compensation. This is not only within the spirit of the law, but it’s the right thing to do given the circumstances we face today. Our front-line workers need to know we have their back and this bill delivers added support they deserve.

The bill represents a compromise agreement made by legislators from all four House and Senate caucuses, and advocates from labor and business groups. The agreement was approved unanimously in an emergency meeting of the Workers Compensation Advisory Council on April 6.

The bill features a sunset date of May 1, 2021. Other main components include:

Providing for a presumptive workers’ compensation insurance provision for the state’s first responders, health care workers, and others if they test positive for COVID-19.

Providing a list of first responders that fall under the Presumption of Occupational Disease provision.

Establishing an effective date for employees who contract COVID-19 on or after the day following final enactment.

The Senate also was expected to also pass the bill Tuesday, putting it in the hands of Gov. Tim Walz for enactment. The Legislature is scheduled to convene again on April 14.