|
Dear neighbors,
On Wednesday, Governor Walz and leaders from Mayo Clinic, the University of Minnesota, Hennepin Healthcare, and other health care providers announced a plan to dramatically increase COVID-19 testing throughout the state. Thanks to this plan, everyone with COVID-19 symptoms will be able to get tested. Health care providers will be able to test as many as 20,000 Minnesotans per day, isolate confirmed cases, and expand public health surveillance tools. We’re lucky to have world-class health care institutions here in Minnesota!
Distance Learning Extended
Yesterday, Governor Walz announced that distance learning will continue until the end of the school year. Distance learning has created new challenges for students, families, and educators, and I’m thankful for all the work that people have done to make it possible. However, I understand that this news will be disappointing for many students – especially our high school seniors.
Reopening Businesses Safely
The Governor also shared a plan to gradually and safely get up to 100,000 Minnesotans back to work. Starting next week, certain workplaces will be allowed to reopen if they create a COVID-19 preparedness plan and meet certain safety guidelines that are outlined here. My colleagues and I will continue working with Governor Walz to get our economy up and running without putting Minnesotans’ lives at risk.
Tips for Avoiding COVID-19 Scams
Unfortunately, scammers are trying to take advantage of this public health crisis. Here are a few tips for spotting and avoiding COVID-19 scams:
- Don’t click on links from unknown sources.
- Ignore online offers for “miracle” health products, treatments, and vaccinations.
- Do your research before donating to a non-profit or charity.
- Report suspected scams to the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office. If you believe you were targeted by a COVID-19 scam, you can file a complaint here or call 651-296-3353 (Metro) or 800-657-3787 (Greater Minnesota).
- Get information directly from relevant governmental agencies. If you’re seeking information about COVID-19, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)’s website – linked here – is a reliable source of information. You can also call the COVID-19 hotline at 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3902.
In addition, AARP hosts a live Coronavirus Information Tele-Town Hall every Thursday at 12 p.m. Government officials are available to answer questions about avoiding coronavirus scams and provide resources for family caregivers. You can join the conversation online here or call 855-274-9507 to join the live event.
I’ll share more information as it becomes available. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or feedback.
Sincerely,
Leon Lillie
State Representative
|