Minnesota economy officials are reminding those receiving unemployment insurance benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic to plan ahead: Unless it’s extended by the federal government, the additional weekly $600 federal payment is expected to end later this month.
 
 The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, or DEED, said the last week the benefit will be paid is the week ending July 25.
 
 The reminder comes as state officials announced a fall in the state’s unemployment rate.
 
 Still, DEED Commissioner Steve Grove acknowledged that the end of the weekly $600 payment will be difficult for many because it has provided critical support for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
 The end of the payment will not impact applicant eligibility. Minnesotans who are eligible for unemployment insurance or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) will continue to receive regular payments — just without the additional $600 payment.
 
 There are many state resources and additional support available during this time of need, so head to uimn.org. Or type in U-I-M-N financial help in any search engine. 
 
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In other news, the Minnesota Department of Health is reminding parents with infants to keep up with immunizations during the pandemic.
 
Health officials recommend parents speak with the child’s doctor on how to best keep the child on track with recommended immunizations. Health experts say not only will immunizations help protect the baby from other serious diseases but will help prevent other disease outbreaks.
 
Head to the state’s health website or type in MDH immunizations on any search engine for more.
 
I’m Cole Premo.