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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Paul Marquart (DFL)

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Rep. Paul Marquart votes for coronavirus response bill

Monday, March 9, 2020

The Minnesota House of Representatives today 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 is expected to be signed into law by Governor Tim Walz today. 

“Minnesota has a top-notch public health system, and Minnesotans should be confident knowing that our public health officials are working around the clock with the Centers for Disease Control, hospitals, clinics, and local officials to address the spread of the coronavirus,” said Rep. Paul Marquart (DFL-Dilworth), who voted in support of the bill. “It’s important that the state acts quickly to provide our state and local health officials the tools to prepare for and stop the spread of the coronavirus.” 

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.