Hello Northlanders,

As you’ve likely heard by now, the CDC issued new guidance relating to mask use, advising that individuals fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (those two weeks beyond their final dose) no longer need to wear masks in most settings. As a result, Governor Walz announced that statewide masking requirements have now ended, while those who haven’t yet received a vaccine are encouraged to continue wearing them to protect others who may still be vulnerable. Local governments and individual businesses can still require masks.

Ensuring as many people as possible receive a vaccine is the best way to help put this pandemic behind us once and for all. Please make plans to get your shot if you haven’t done so yet. It’s never been easier, with many locations now accepting walk-ins. Find a place to get your vaccine here.

Adult-Use Cannabis

Last night, the Minnesota House approved legislation to legalize cannabis for personal, adult use. This is a significant move, highlighting the increasing attitude change among many Minnesotans regarding the issue. The bill would create a responsibly regulated cannabis market and includes measures to address youth access, public health, and road safety concerns. With 13 committee hearings, it was one of the most carefully vetted pieces of legislation in recent memory.

I voted for the bill because cannabis has many demonstrated benefits for those living with chronic pain, PTSD, and other serious health issues – many of whom are our military veterans. The current prohibition on cannabis is in many ways doing more harm than good, and this is an important conversation for us to continue having as a state.

American Rescue Plan

Earlier this week, states received guidance from the federal government regarding anticipated funding under the American Rescue Plan, which the U.S. Congress passed and President Biden signed into law earlier this year. Minnesota will receive a total of $2.8 billion to aid in our state’s response to COVID-19, fill revenue shortfalls, and support the populations most harmed by the pandemic. This funding should hopefully help us reach a budget agreement, but it’s important to remember that this isn’t ongoing funding. Long-term investments in our schools, health care, and economic security will be necessary for a stronger future.

For my part, I’ve been advocating to use a portion of this funding to provide timber relief. Minnesota loggers were devastated last year when the Verso paper mill in Duluth suddenly closed, not only leaving them without a market for the product, but leaving them on the hook for DNR permit down payments. This is an urgent problem. Full amounts for the payments are coming due, and for the timber industry to navigate this crisis, they need direct relief now.

Fishing Opener

Tomorrow is the long-awaited 2021 fishing opener! Before you head out on the boat, please take some time to review Minnesota’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) laws and other actions you should take to prevent these species from spreading. A few quick steps can help protect our lakes and rivers for all of us to enjoy. Good luck out there!

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