Dear Neighbors,

Today, Governor Walz joined leaders from Mayo Clinic, the University of Minnesota, and other health care providers to announce a plan to drastically increase COVID-19 testing throughout the state. This strategy will mean all symptomatic people can be tested (as many 20,000 per day), isolate confirmed cases, and expand public health surveillance tools. In Minnesota, we’re grateful to have groundbreaking research institutions like the U of M and Mayo.

4th Package of COVID-19 Aid

We’ve all been forced to adapt to the new situation we find ourselves in during this pandemic. Last week, the House approved a package of bills to provide Minnesotan with some flexibility and assistance during these uncertain times. The legislation includes provisions to help Minnesotans execute wills, allow local governments to meet remotely, suspend certain deadlines and expiration dates, allow marriage applications to be submitted without the need to appear in person, expand the use of telemedicine, give the Department of Health authority to set up alternative health care facilities, and more. This was our fourth package of COVID-19 response legislation since the pandemic emerged. Learn more about the bill here.

Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act Now Law

Amid our work to combat COVID-19, I’m encouraged we made progress on another critically important issue: insulin affordability. After many months of work toward a bipartisan consensus, last week the House and Senate both approved the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act. The legislation – named for a young man who tragically died because he couldn’t afford a prescription refill of his insulin – will ensure emergency access to insulin for those who need it and help Minnesotans access affordable insulin in the long-term. It’s inexcusable that any Minnesotan’s life should be put in jeopardy because they can’t afford to refill their prescription of a medication like insulin. The Alec Smith Act will help prevent tragedies like the one he and his family experienced. I’m deeply grateful to Alec’s parents and other advocates who deserve all the credit for this bill becoming law.

Domestic Violence Resources

Staying at home shouldn’t mean staying in an unsafe environment. If you’re experiencing domestic violence, programs and shelters are critical services and remain open. A crisis hotline is available 24 hours a day at 1-866-223-1111 or you can text 612-399-9995. Violence Free Minnesota has links and phone numbers to helpful resources.

For up-to-date information about COVID-19 in the state of Minnesota, visit the COVID-19 Dashboard or the Minnesota House’s COVID-19 website. Based on Minnesota having one of the lowest per-capita rates of COVID-19, there’s evidence our social distancing efforts are working. Let’s commit to keeping it up and emerging from this pandemic stronger.

Wishing wellness, safety, and good health to you and your family.

Sincerely,

Liz Olson
State Representative