State aid for Twin Cities businesses uncertain as end of session looms

Cleanup on East Lake Street
Volunteers help clean up a Minneapolis business damaged during the unrest following George Floyd's killing last May.
Courtney Perry for MPR News 2020

Nearly a year after unrest that followed the death of George Floyd, businesses damaged in the violence are watching for signs of help from lawmakers in St. Paul.

Hundreds of small businesses were impacted by the rioting that flared in response to Floyd's killing by police. State Rep. Fue Lee, DFL-Minneapolis, chairs the bonding committee in the House, and has been pushing for a $300 million state borrowing and aid proposal for rebuilding efforts.

Republicans have been cool to the idea, saying they want the money spent accountably and don't want to bail out city budgets.

Lee spoke with MPR News host Cathy Wurzer.

Click on the audio player above to hear their conversation.

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