ST. PAUL – State Rep. Dean Urdahl, R-Acton Township, said he will continue working to represent the citizens of District 18A, even as the Minnesota House’s daily operations have been altered amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
The House formally will remain in session as the state addresses the pressing public health issue surrounding COVID-19, with meetings and floor sessions taking place on an on-call basis until April 14. Urdahl said alternate means of working will allow the House to respond to the needs of Minnesotans, while also fully complying with Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) guidelines including social distancing, limiting large gatherings, telework, and increased cleaning measures necessitated by COVID-19.
“Communication has been a mainstay of my legislative career and times like this highlight the importance of being a true public servant,” Urdahl said. “In many ways, we are treading in uncharted waters with the impacts we are facing with the COVID-19 outbreak and a great many unknowns remain. The best way for us to overcome this challenge is to continue communicating, doing your part to mitigate exposure and taking advantage of resources that are available. The silver lining to the schedule changing in St. Paul is that I will be back home in the district, ready to continue assisting people as I am able and connecting them with help as needed. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.”
Urdahl indicated MDH hotlines are available to assist Minnesotans, including a public line (651) 201-3920 and a line for questions specifically related to schools and/or childcare (651) 297-1304. Several online resources also are available to help individuals stay up to date:
Urdahl can be reached at (651) 296-4344 or at rep.dean.urdahl@house.mn
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