Dear Neighbors,
I wanted to send out this newsletter with an emphasis on how the state is responding to the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic. In short we are responding thoughtfully, planning and anticipating our response in a number of different policy areas. Perhaps most importantly we are listening and taking guidance from the experts at the Minnesota Department of Health.
Early this week, the legislature unanimously approved emergency state funding of nearly $21 million for our public health response to COVID-19. I’m glad that the legislature moved quickly and collaboratively. The Governor signed it into law on March 10.
Today, Governor Walz and Minnesota Department of Health held a press conference to discuss further steps being taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Minnesota.
To protect public health and slow the rate of transmission, the Minnesota Department of Health recommends implementing the following mitigation strategies:
Postponing or Canceling Certain Events
These events include:
- Large events of 250 or more people should be postponed or canceled
- This includes but is not limited to concerts, conferences, and professional, college, and school performances or sporting events
- Smaller events that are held in venues that do not allow social distancing of 6 feet per person
- This includes gatherings in crowded auditoriums, rooms or other venues
- Events where the majority of participants are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should be limited to no more than 10 people
- This includes gatherings at retirement facilities, assisted living facilities, developmental homes, and health support groups
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