Minnsights Blog

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted businesses in every corner of Minnesota, from decreased demand for products and services, to break-downs in supply chains, to some closing their doors forever. Reopening the economy and managing the ongoing economic fallout is a top business community concern, according to a recent survey. Lawmakers must focus on steps to avoid additional restrictions on businesses and not raise costs or burdens on businesses already struggling to survive.

This report provides data to illustrate those initial severe and unprecedented impacts of the pandemic and government interventions as well as the ongoing uncertainty and challenges. An economic imperative stands before us: We must restore livelihoods now and position the state for long-term growth. It’s possible, and it’s a collective effort. Public health and economic recovery must go hand in hand. Whether you are reading this report as a private-sector employer or an elected official, you have a responsibility to move the needle forward into a period of improvement and long-term success.

There are several recognized strengths of Minnesota’s economy that should be relied upon to spur short- and long-term growth.

Stabilize existing businesses through targeted relief. Targeted relief should include the following:

COVID-19 is first and foremost a public health crisis. Protecting the lives of Minnesotans remains the paramount concern for all. Yet, failure to achieve a timely economic recovery will imperil the well-being of tens of thousands of Minnesotans as well. Public health and economic recovery must go hand in hand.