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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Melissa Hortman (DFL)

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Statements from Speaker Hortman and Majority Leader Winkler on Safe Learning Plan for school year

Thursday, July 30, 2020

St. Paul, Minnesota — Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler released the following statements on the Walz Administration’s guidance for school districts:

“Our students deserve the best possible learning environment, taking into account the difficult circumstances we face,” said Speaker Hortman. “If it is safe for students, their families, and educators, we all would like to see students in the classroom. Governor Walz has put forward reasonable guidelines to help local school districts create safe learning environments. I'm pleased to see the Administration's commitment to provide CARES Act funding to schools. Our districts need additional resources to provide the high-quality education we expect while keeping Minnesotans safe.”

“Like so many things related to COVID-19, this issue has become unnecessarily politicized, putting lives at risk,” said Majority Leader Winkler. “Keeping Minnesotans safe has to be our top priority, and that means our schools will have to be flexible and adjust as circumstances change. The guidance from the Walz Administration will help each district adapt to their situation and do what’s best for their students, teachers, and families.”