Dear Neighbors,
Updates Return
With the campaign season ending we can return to our regular email updates covering everything happening at the Legislature and around Minnesota. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful community for returning me to the Legislature. I plan to continue to serve you diligently over these next two years.
New Covid-19 Rules as Virus Reaches Record Levels
Unfortunately, Covid is spreading at record levels throughout the country, including here in Minnesota where we are approaching our capacity to manage the virus. Governor Walz has announced a number of new actions designed to reign in the virus. First, Governor Walz announced the addition of more than a dozen new testing locations opening across the state over the next two weeks. All of the new testing sites will continue to offer free, “no barrier” COVID-19 testing. Testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. These sites will be open at least through the end of the year with logistical aid provided by the National Guard. It is critical that we test as much as possible so we can trace how the virus is spreading and implement the necessary isolation.For more information on how and where to receive a COVID-19 test, visit mn.gov/covid19/.
Today, Governor Walz announced new restrictions on bars and restaurants. This includes a 10 p.m. curfew, no bar seating, and an indoor cap of 150 people at 50% total capacity. Weddings, funeral attendance, and large private gatherings will also be curtailed in a phased approach to a 25-person cap. No one wants to see increased restrictions; we are all fatigued by the ongoing fight against COVID-19. But these restrictions are necessary to help reverse the spread of this virus and save lives. We aren’t at a point where we can return to normal. These restrictions are a direct result of Minnesotans returning to too many pre-covid activities without taking the proper preventative measures. I understand that this is difficult, but we must remain strict when it comes to managing this virus. For everyone's sake, please continue to limit gatherings, wear masks, and social distance.
Veterans Day
Wednesday, November 11th, is Veteran’s day. We extend our most heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude to all those who have served our country. All veterans deserve to be honored and supported by the government, where needed, for the sacrifices they have made. We have to do what we can to support veterans where possible, that is why I support the Veterans Restorative Justice Act, which diverts most veterans with service-connected trauma, substance abuse, or mental health conditions from serving jail-time towards probation and social services. This is an important step to help these troubled veterans break from the recidivism cycle and truly reform.
Keep in Touch
Now more than ever, please contact me anytime with questions, input, or ideas. Don’t hesitate to reach out if I can provide any assistance. Please follow me on my Facebook page for further updates and invite your friends and family to do so as well.
Thanks for the honor of representing you at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Steve Elkins
Representative, District 49B
Minnesota House of Representatives
515 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(651) 296-7803