Dear neighbors,

First of all, I’d like to thank the residents of District 38B for the opportunity to continue representing our community. A recent hand recount reaffirmed that every ballot was counted and that I will return to the Capitol for another two years. I’m deeply honored and excited to continue serving you in the Minnesota House of Representatives.  

COVID-19 Vaccination Plan 

Minnesota is preparing for the expected arrival of a COVID-19 vaccine. On Tuesday, Governor Walz unveiled a COVID-19 vaccination plan. The goal is to quickly, equitably, and safely deliver the vaccine to Minnesotans in every corner of the state. You can find more information here.  

No vaccine is available yet, but two pharmaceutical companies – Pfizer and Moderna – have submitted vaccines for FDA approval. Others are currently in clinical trials. Once one is approved, there will be 25 distribution hubs set up across the state to receive vaccine deliveries through the national distribution chain. From there, the vaccine will be distributed to smaller hospitals and clinics.  

Health care workers and long-term care residents will be the first to receive the vaccine, followed by essential workers, seniors, and people with preexisting conditions who are more likely to become seriously ill if they contract the virus. The vaccine will be offered to Minnesotans at no cost.  

This will take some time and patience. Meanwhile, it’s important for us to continue doing all we can to slow the spread of COVID-19, including wearing masks, social distancing, staying home when possible, and getting tested if feeling sick.  

Upcoming Special Session 

As I mentioned in my last update, House DFLers have crafted a COVID-19 economic assistance package to help Minnesotans make ends meet as we weather this pandemic. Our plan has Governor Walz’s support, and we’re working with our Republican colleagues to deliver immediate aid to working families and small businesses. I’m hopeful that we can reach an agreement in time for the next special session, which is slated to begin on Monday, December 14.  

Make Your Voice Heard  

Public Meeting About Water Gremlin’s Emissions Permit  

I wanted to remind you that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is holding an online public meeting tonight from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The agency is seeking input on a minor amendment to Water Gremlin’s air emissions permit. You can join the virtual meeting here.  

The permit amendment is under consideration because Water Gremlin wants to make a change to their coating process that would impact the facility’s potential emissions. If you’d like to submit a public comment on this proposal, you can email sarah.sevcik@state.mn.us or send a comment by mail to Sarah Sevcik, MPCA, 520 Lafayette Rd. N., St. Paul, MN 55155. You must include your interest, the action you want the MPCA to take, and the reasons for your position. Public comments are due by 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 17. 

Stay Connected 

Please continue sharing your questions, ideas, and feedback. You can reach me via email at rep.ami.wazlawik@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-3018. For additional updates from our community and the Capitol, you can follow my official Facebook page here.  

Sincerely,  

Ami Wazlawik 
State Representative