Legislative Update - March 25, 2020

Dear Neighbors, 

As the confirmed cases and hospitalizations of COVID-19 continue to grow in Minnesota, today, Governor Walz took steps to formalize what many of us have already been practicing to help “flatten the curve” and slow the spread of the virus. 

In addition to extending school closures to May 4, and the closures of bars, restaurants, and public venues until May 1, Governor Walz announced the “Stay at Home” Executive Order, ordering Minnesotans to stay home from Friday, March 27, at 11:59pm through Friday, April 10, at 5:00pm. 

This is a measure that several states and countries have taken in an effort address COVID-19, and it’s an act I know Governor Walz doesn’t take lightly. It’s tough, but it’s the right thing to do. 

The cost of doing nothing is grim, as outlined in Governor Walz’s Facebook Live Address (which you can watch here). A worst-case scenario estimates the loss of over 70,000 Minnesotans to COVID-19, but that’s only if we take no action. The time being bought for our public health professionals by staying home is incredibly valuable, and it will save lives. 

You can read Governor Walz’s executive order here, which includes a comprehensive list of acceptable activities, exemptions, and critical sectors of work. You can also find all current executive orders here.

Our Work in the Minnesota Legislature

Things can change by the hour these days, but right now our plan is for the Minnesota House and Senate to meet at the State Capitol tomorrow to pass a bipartisan package of legislation to better equip Minnesota to remain strong during and after this pandemic. 

Members have been working from home this past week to reach consensus on a number of bills so that we’re able to quickly vote on the House floor while doing our best to adhere to recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health. 

The Minnesota House is scheduled to begin at noon, and the Minnesota Senate at 2pm. Members of the public can watch the House floor session on the House website, YouTube, and on TPT Minnesota. Video from all floor sessions is archived here.

If you have any questions about today’s executive orders or our work in the House, feel free to reach out via phone, (651) 296-7158, or email, rep.michael.howard@house.mn. I look forward to hearing from you. 

Be kind to one another, stay home, and wash your hands.

In partnership,

Michael Howard