Legislative Update from Rep. Linda Runbeck

Dear Neighbors, 

As the cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota climb, the legislature and Governor Walz have taken decisive action to stop the spread of this virus and protect the health and safety of Minnesotans.  

Things are evolving quickly and changing every day. On Sunday, the Governor announced that all Minnesota schools would close; the Minnesota legislature has altered its session schedule; and Governor Walz announced yesterday the mandatory closure of restaurants, bars, and other public places where crowds generally congregate. 

This is a challenging time for business owners, employees, children and families alike. We must come together to care for our neighbors and slow the spread of COVID-19. 

For individuals that are impacted by business closures, you may be eligible for unemployment insurance. Visit www.uimn.org to learn more and to apply. 

While the legislature effectively “recesses” until April 14th, I want to communicate to you that I will continue working to represent our community. Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. I will provide information and resources that will help you make informed decisions that will protect the health of you and your family. 

There are several website links and phone numbers I want to pass along so you can receive timely and accurate information as it relates to COVID-19. 

• The Minnesota Department of Health's COVID-19 page is: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/index.html 
• The Center for Disease Control's COVID-19 webpage is: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html 
• The Mayo Clinic’s COVID-19 page is : https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/symptoms-causes/syc-20479963 

If you’re the parent of a school-aged child, please visit your school district’s website for information on school closures.  

• Centennial School District: https://www.isd12.org/ 
• White Bear Lake School District: https://www.isd624.org/ 
• Anoka Hennepin School District: https://www.ahschools.us/ 
• Forest Lake School District:  https://www.flaschools.org 

The Minnesota Department of Health has a hotline available related to schools and/or childcare. Call (651) 297-1304 for more information. 

We will get through this eventually, but please heed the advice of health experts. Avoid crowds, practice social distancing, wash your hands, stay home if you’re sick, and cover your cough.  

Please be sure to look after the elderly and at-risk populations that are being impacted by this virus the hardest. 

The days and weeks ahead will be challenging, and I urge you to go about your daily life with common sense and compassion.  

Sincerely, 

Linda