Minnesota looks for additional $300 in weekly jobless aid

No curfew for Friday night in the Twin Cities. Police, state troopers and soldiers from the Minnesota National Guard were on patrol during an overnight curfew in the Twin Cities Thursday night, after looting and vandalism hit businesses along Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis on Wednesday. The unrest followed rumors of a police shooting. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced there would not be another curfew, though he added that the city is prepared to change that if looting or vandalism flares up.

The latest on COVID-19 in MN: As cases rise, state cracks down on bars and restaurants . Community spread continues to be the primary source of exposure since the coronavirus established itself across the state. State health officials announced that bars and restaurants across Minnesota will face increased scrutiny starting Friday over whether they're complying with COVID-19 guidelines. “I want to be clear. We know that most establishments are following federal and state guidelines,” MDH Infectious Disease Director Kris Ehresmann said. “But it’s really hard for them to compete or even to explain to their customers … while there are other establishments that are not in compliance.”

With many out of work because of the pandemic, Minnesota applies for additional aid. Gov. Tim Walz announced today his administration has applied for access to a federal program that would tack $300 per week more on unemployment checks for people whose lost wages are directly attributable to the pandemic. To qualify, a person must receive at least $100 in state unemployment assistance because that’s the match the state is using to unlock the extra dollars.

You can get more of the latest news, in less than five minutes, via the Minnesota Today podcast.