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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Fue Lee (DFL)

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Legislative Update - November 19, 2020

Thursday, November 19, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

Last night, Governor Walz announced a new series of public health guidelines. Hospitals are approaching capacity and many providers are experiencing a shortage of workers. Yesterday, Minnesota reached the tragic milestone of 3,000 COVID-19 deaths. We must take action now to help slow the rapid spread of this virus.

Many of the restrictions are similar to those enacted this past spring. Starting Friday at 11:59 p.m., bars and restaurants will only be open through take-out options, gyms and entertainment venues will close, and we’ll be putting a pause on youth sports.

Pausing for COVID

One of the biggest reasons for aggressive action now is the shortage of critical care beds. While we need these for COVID patients, Minnesotans will continue to experience other illnesses and accidents too, and these folks also need care. If we don’t get a handle on this virus now, our hospitals will reach capacity, putting Minnesotans who urgently need care in jeopardy.

Beds

It's time for everybody to listen to doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals who are tirelessly doing everything they can to keep people safe. All along, Governor Walz has had to make difficult decisions, and they are hard for Minnesotans too. Our small businesses have already experienced tremendous hardship, and I encourage you to support your favorite establishments by getting take-out meals as you’re able and purchasing gift cards. As difficult as they are, these measures will put us in a better position to protect Minnesotans and get a handle on the virus.


Testing Options

There are several new options for getting tested for COVID-19, including a take home version. If you have symptoms or have come in contact with someone with COVID-19, you should get tested. If you do not have symptoms, it is best to get tested at least five days after the last time you were close to a person with COVID-19. With the surge in cases, note that it can take several days to get your results.

Saliva testing is available at the Minneapolis Convention Center daily. You can find more information on testing options here.

Continue to take precautions to prevent COVID from spreading. Wash your hands frequently, practice social distancing, avoid gatherings, and wear a mask. This is all hard, especially with the holidays upon us, but this is a critical time to contain the virus from spreading.

Feel free to email me (rep.fue.lee@house.mn) or call me (651-296-4262) any time with your input or if I can ever be of assistance.  It’s an honor to serve as your state representative.

Sincerely,

Fue Lee
State Representative