MN Contractor Updates for COVID-19

Hello to you all in this trying time of uncertainty and fear. Our thoughts are with everyone that is or will be affected by this event, whether physically, emotionally, or economically. We’ve put together a few pointers for your businesses that we hope will be helpful. If there is anything we can do to help, please reach out to Bill or Courtney to answer any questions you may have regarding your cases. We are fortunate to all have the capability to work remotely, so our “office” will stay open to assist. The courts have all suspended any non-emergency hearings until further notice, so if you have any hearings or conciliation court cases that we are not the attorneys on, please check http://pa.courts.mn.gov/default.aspx. Unemployment: The MN Department of Employment and Economic Development has allowed for individuals who are laid off as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic to immediately apply for unemployment benefits. Those who apply due to their diagnosis, a close family member’s diagnosis, directive by a health care professional to self-quarantine, or the employee being forced to stay home due to lack of child care will receive unemployment. The State will NOT apply a surcharge to employers who have had employees file for unemployment as a result of this pandemic for the duration of the current Executive Order. Department of Labor: The continuing education reporting deadlines have been extended for 90 days for anyone whose license expires in March, April, or May 2020 per Minn. Stat. § 326B.0981, subd. 13. Licensees will still have to submit a timely license renewal in order to avoid late fees, but DLI will renew their licenses without all CE completed. DLI will follow up with these licensees to ensure CE compliance down the road. Building Departments: As of today, all building departments are handling inspections differently. Please call the individual building department to confirm whether they are cancelling, suspending or conducting inspections. Small Business Loans: Minnesota has yet to opt-in to the federal program that allows for low interest loans. The Senate is expected to pass legislation today or tomorrow that allows for “loans” to small businesses that are not expected to be repaid. They will operate similar to current 7(a) loans, but we will keep you posted of any legislation that is passed. We understand that these are stressful times for everyone and we will do our best to pass along any updates that may affect you or your business. As always, thank you for trusting Minnesota Construction Law Services, your legal and business partner for growth. Stay safe and well.