March 17, 2020
News Release
RELEASE: Rep. Scott still working for constituents amid COVID-19 outbreak
ST. PAUL – State Rep. Peggy Scott (R-Andover) said she will continue working to represent the citizens of District 35B, 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. Scott 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.
“As we continue facing the challenges of this developing situation, I want people to know I can still be reached,” Scott said. “I will continue working on behalf of our community and will remain on-call to conduct emergency legislative action as necessary. Despite these unprecedented circumstances, it’s important that policymakers maintain the usual lines of communication with the people they represent. Please contact me if there’s anything I can do to help or direct you to resources available at the state or local levels.”
Early Tuesday morning, Scott voted for nearly $200 million in additional funding to combat the COVID-19 pandemic as it was unanimously approved by the legislature. The bill provides $50 million to the Public Health Response Contingency Account for use by providers, ambulance services, health care clinics, hospitals, and long term care facilities. It also allocates $150 million to the newly-created Health Care Response Fund for grants to providers for costs necessary for COVID-19 response.
Scott 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:
Rep. Scott can be reached at 651-296-4231 or rep.peggy.scott@house.mn.
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