Legislative Update- January 9, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

The deadly rioting we all witnessed at our nation’s Capitol this week was a travesty. Sadly, in many ways, we have all anticipated that this day was coming after multiple incitements of violence and words of encouragement to engage in domestic terrorism from President Trump.  

Despite the harrowing display of disunity and insurrection, I am hopeful for our country's future. What ugly actions unfolded today indeed do not reflect the better angels of our nation's soul. And we are a resilient people. We have led the world out of two world wars and have sprung from the ashes of our own civil war a better nation than was founded. There are far more beautiful, strong and committed leaders who are determined to help shape our country's future in more meaningful ways and through more hopeful futures. I cannot be prouder than to stand with a crop of legislators in our state who are not just dedicated to that future, but also better reflect what our communities look like. We can't wait to hit the ground running to uplift all of Minnesota here in St. Paul and all across the state.

COVID-19 Guidance: Dials Turning

This week, Governor Tim Walz announced that certain restrictions on various activities and businesses will be relaxed starting Monday, January 11. The governor pointed to improvements in several metrics, including case counts and hospital capacity, as well as the distribution of the vaccine. The changes include the following:

• Indoor dining at bars and restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity, with a maximum of 150 people. Parties of no more than six people must remain six feet from other parties; bar seating is open to parties of two; reservations are required; and establishments must close dine-in service by 10 p.m.
• Gym capacity remains capped at 25 percent but maximum capacity increases to 150 and classes can increase to 25 people, assuming distancing can be observed. Machines and people must maintain nine- feet of distance. Face coverings are required.
• Outdoor events and entertainment continue at 25 percent capacity, but maximum capacity increases to 250 people. Social distancing is required.
• Indoor events and entertainment – like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums – may open at 25 percent, with no more than 150 people in each area of the venue. Face coverings are required, and they may not offer food service after 10 p.m.
• Youth and adult organized sports have resumed practice as of January 4 and games resume January 14 with spectators, following the appropriate capacity limits for indoor or outdoor venues. Inter-region tournaments and out of state play are discouraged.
• Places of worship remain open at 50% capacity but without an overall maximum capacity.

With vaccine administration already underway (over 100,000 Minnesotans have received the initial dose), we can finally see the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel. However, it’s still critically important we continue to follow public health guidelines by masking up, washing our hands frequently, maintaining a safe distance from others, avoiding large groups and gatherings, getting tested if we feel sick, and staying home when we can.

Committee Assignments

I’m pleased to share I’ll be serving on the following committees this biennium: Capital Investment; Legacy Finance; and Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Finance & Policy . I’ll also be serving as the vice chair of the newly established Workforce and Business Development Finance & Policy Committee. In this new role, I will fiercely advocate for statewide strategies, such as the PROMISE Act, to help our Eastside businesses rebuild as they continue to struggle from the civil unrest last summer.

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201 with input or questions. I’m grateful for the opportunity to provide any assistance needed.

If you know of anyone in our Eastside community who may be interested in receiving these email newsletters please share this link with you neighbors, coworkers, and friends.

Thank you for the honor of serving you in the Minnesota House.

In solidarity,

Jay Xiong

State Representative