St. Paul, Minn. -- The Minnesota House of Representatives yesterday unanimously approved a bill to ensure that public health officials are prepared to respond to COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus. The bill (House File 3980) appropriates approximately $21 million dollars to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and will be signed into law by Governor Tim Walz today.
“We all need to be prepared for potential challenges in the days ahead,” said Rep. Kristin Bahner (DFL-Maple Grove), who voted to support the legislation. “Swiftly passing this emergency funding will ensure we are ready to deliver a strong response.”
Minnesota confirmed the first case of coronavirus on Friday, March 6. A second case was confirmed on Sunday, March 8. MDH has set up a public hotline that will be open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. The hotline number is 651-201-3920. You can also visit www.health.state.mn.us for up-to-date and accurate information about what Minnesota is doing to prepare for and stop the spread of COVID-19.
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