Hello Northlanders,

We’re nearing the end of the legislative session – we must adjourn by May 17 – and continue to work toward a budget agreement. There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the future, but we still need to recognize the incredible difficulty many Minnesota workers, small businesses, students, and families have faced over the last year. I’m hopeful our final budget will ensure that as our state turns the corner beyond this pandemic, everyone will have the chance to succeed and thrive.

COVID-19 Restrictions Winding Down

Today, Governor Walz announced a new timeline to end just about all COVID-19 restrictions in the state. The timeline includes three steps concluding with the end of the statewide mask requirement once 70% of Minnesotans aged 16 years and older get their vaccine, or by July 1, whichever comes first. 

Today’s announcement gives us more reason than ever before to be optimistic we’re closing the book on this pandemic. I know how much our communities are looking forward to returning to normal, and as we enter the summer months with vaccinations increasing, the governor’s announcement is welcome news that will aid our economic recovery. If you haven’t received your vaccine yet, please make plans to do so. Minnesota’s Vaccine Connector can put you in touch with opportunities.

The light at the end of the tunnel continues to get brighter and each shot helps bring us closer to putting COVID-19 behind us.

New State Budget

Now that the House and Senate have each passed their respective budget bills off the House floor, joint House/Senate conference committees are working toward a final budget agreement. Minnesotans expect lawmakers to work together, and I’m committed to reaching a compromise that includes the critical investments in the things Minnesotans value, like funding for world class schools, affordable health care, and new economic opportunities for families and communities.

For my part, I’m serving on the conference committee assembling the Workforce and Business Development budget. Many workers – especially those in the hospitality industry – and small businesses have faced incredible hardship during COVID-19 and we have the responsibility to do everything we can to ensure they have a strong future with the economic security they deserve.

A silver lining to operating remotely means it’s easier for Minnesotans to follow along with our work from home. House Public Information Services has nonpartisan informative resources including Session Daily and streaming video of committee meetings and floor sessions.

REAL ID Deadline Extended

Since COVID-19 emerged, Driver and Vehicle Services offices have been overwhelmed. Some good news recently came for Minnesotans as well as DVS offices when the federal government announced the deadline to obtain a REAL ID has been extended from this coming October to May 3, 2023. This additional 18 months will help relieve some of the pressure on our DVS offices, to allow them to focus on tab and license renewals, and give Minnesotans more time to obtain this updated form of ID.

After May 3, 2023, Minnesotans will need a REAL ID to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities. An enhanced driver's license or ID card, passport, or passport card will work as well.

I want to wish all the moms out there a Happy Mothers Day, and hope the holiday will be enjoyable and relaxing. Please continue to contact me with your feedback and ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance. It’s an honor to represent you.

Sincerely,

Rob Ecklund
State Representative