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Dear neighbors,
As I mentioned in my last email, Governor Walz recently introduced new public health guidelines to slow the dangerous spread of COVID-19. The guidelines, which took effect on Friday, set in-person dining, sports, gyms, and more on pause. Minnesotans are asked to put their social lives on hold as well. For the next few weeks, folks should stay home when possible and avoid gatherings with anyone outside of their household.
These restrictions are necessary to protect Minnesotans and maintain hospital capacity, but we know that they’ll create challenges for many businesses and families. My colleagues and I are committed to supporting small businesses and the people whose livelihoods depend on them as they do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19. This morning, Governor Walz announced a COVID-19 economic relief package to keep businesses afloat, support workers, and help families keep food on the table.
I know this is difficult, especially with the holidays around the corner, but we need to protect Minnesotans and maintain hospital capacity. Please stay home when you can, limit the size of gatherings, wear a face mask, and maintain social distancing. We all have a role to play in the fight against COVID-19, and together, we can get the virus under control.
COVIDaware MN
Yesterday, Governor Walz unveiled COVIDaware MN, a new tool to help Minnesotans stay informed as COVID-19 cases surge across the state. This free mobile app can alert people if someone they’ve been in close contact with – even someone they don’t know – contracts the virus. It uses Bluetooth technology, developed by Apple and Google in partnership with the State of Minnesota and the nonprofit PathCheck Foundation, to notify individuals about possible exposures while protecting their privacy. The app is completely voluntary and anonymous. You can download it and learn more here.
DNR Gift Cards Available
A few years ago, I sponsored legislation that allowed the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to sell gift cards that can be used for hunting and fishing licenses, gear, and more. If you’d like to give your loved ones the gift of the outdoors this holiday season, you can purchase gift cards here.
Upcoming Events
The annual South St. Paul tree lighting will be held virtually this year. If you’d like to watch the event, it will be live streamed here on Sunday, November 29 at 5:30 p.m. Residents can also watch the tree lighting from street parking spots around Central Square, but they must remain in their cars.
While the holidays will look different this year, I hope you have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. Please reach out if you have any questions or feedback or if I can be of assistance. You can contact me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or 651-226-6828.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
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