Minnesota's COVID-19 Vaccination Distribution Plan

Dear Neighbors,

I hope you’re enjoying the mild start to December. I’d like to extend a big thank you to everyone who attended the virtual coffee hour I hosted with Rep. Huot on Saturday. We had a great turnout, and lots of excellent questions and discussion. These events are a great way not only for us to hear from constituents, but for community members to come together, get to know one another, and learn from each other. I hope you’ll consider joining us for a future virtual coffee hour.

Ahead of the regular legislative session on January 5, we have one last special session taking place next week. The latest round of COVID-19 safety precautions in response to the surge of COVID-19 cases has resulted in additional hardships for local businesses, many of which have been struggling since the onset of the virus. With inaction at the federal level, it’s up to us in Minnesota to make sure our local businesses, workers, and families are properly supported as we dial back to protect each other, and healthcare staff and hospital capacity. Bipartisan negotiations continue for what a new package of economic assistance legislation will look like. Stay tuned for updates on when we’ll be back in the coming days to pass this legislation. 

Vaccine Distribution Plan for Minnesota

Yesterday, Governor Walz announced Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan. In partnership with the federal government and local communities, the goal is to quickly, equitably, and safely deliver the vaccine to Minnesotans in every corner of the state. No vaccine has been approved yet, but both Pfizer and Moderna have submitted plans for FDA approval, and others are currently in clinical trials. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are 95 percent effective. In both cases, two doses will be required. Despite the quick development timeline, the vaccines have had to meet strict safety guidance and rigorous clinical trials.

Across the state, there will be 25 distribution hubs set up to directly receive vaccine deliveries through the national vaccine distribution chain. From there, the vaccine will be distributed further to smaller hospitals or clinics, or “spokes.” COVID-19 vaccines and additional supplies will be distributed at no cost to providers registered for COVID-19 vaccination, and vaccines will be provided to people at no cost. The vaccine will not be mandatory. Read more from Minnesota Public Radio’s coverage here.

This rollout will take patience and some time. Meanwhile, it’s important for us to continue to do all we can to slow the spread by masking, handwashing, distancing, staying home when we can, and getting tested for COVID-19 if feeling sick.

Keep in Touch

Please contact me anytime at rep.robert.bierman@house.mn or 651-296-5506 with questions or input. I’m always happy to see how I can be of assistance.

For additional community updates and news from the Capitol, you’re welcome to follow me on my official Facebook page.

Thank you for the honor of serving our Apple Valley and Lakeville neighbors in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Sincerely,

Robert Bierman

State Representative