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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Dale Lueck (R)

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Lueck: Package approved to combat COVID-19

Thursday, March 26, 2020

ST. PAUL — Rep. Dale Lueck, R-Aitkin, issued the following statement regarding Thursday’s passage of HF4531. The bill includes numerous special provisions designed to assist Minnesotan’s as we battle through the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation authorizes up to $330.6 million in special funding to provide financial support for workers, businesses and students that are being negatively impacted by the many emergency measures imposed in order to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

“Legislators have been listening intently to constituents and working around the clock with the governor to clear as many ‘business as usual’ roadblocks that could slow down our response and hamper a rapid recovery from this difficult period,” Lueck said. “This an example of strong bipartisan work that puts Minnesotans first as we continue to tackle the many issues that will surely arise in the coming weeks and months.

“My mission remains to protect the health of the people of our district and Minnesota, as well as ensure that our businesses, schools, and local governments remain viable going forward. While the current emergency executive orders are asking our citizens and businesses to make huge sacrifices, working together will weather this storm.”

Over the past week, members on both sides of the aisle and the governor have been working together to develop a variety of legislative changes that will increase our effectiveness in dealing with the pandemic. Along with those changes are provisions to ensure funds are spent appropriately, including sunsets on temporary changes, timely reporting requirements, and other measures to assure accountability.

Earlier this month, the legislature approved $221 million in funding to assist with COVID-19 preparation and response. The bulk of those dollars were directed toward assisting our hospitals and other emergency services in preparing for the significant increase in health services that will be required to meet the challenge of the COVID-19 outbreak.

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