SAINT PAUL - The Minnesota House of Representatives today voted to approve funding for the state’s public health response to COVID-19, commonly referred to as the coronavirus. The first presumed positive case of the condition was identified on Friday in Ramsey County, with the second following Sunday in Carver County.
“It’s important for us to quickly address this condition and today I was proud to support the funding to allow the Department of Health to prepare and respond,” said Rep. Jen Schultz (DFL – Duluth). “State officials are coordinating closely with our world-class health care providers, and this bill will help ensure our state has the resources to deliver an effective response.”
“Amid a great deal of uncertainty, this funding will help Minnesotans know that our health professionals are fully prepared to respond to a potential spread of COVID-19,” Rep. Liz Olson (DFL – Duluth), the House Majority Whip. “I’m glad we were able to come together and help ensure our communities can be safe and healthy.”
The legislation transfers nearly $21 million to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to address COVID-19. The bill also includes flexibility to ensure the state is effectively able to address any future strain of the virus. The legislation is expected to be signed into law by Governor Tim Walz today.
Minnesotans are reminded to take basic precautions to prevent the spread of the illness, including frequent, thorough hand washing, covering their cough with their sleeve, and staying home when sick.
MDH has comprehensive information and resources on its website, and a hotline is available at 651-201-3920.