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Dear neighbors,
These are extraordinary times. The events of the last few days have affected all of us – some dramatically. I hope that you’re able to be safe, maintain your health, and stay in touch with news and events.
School Cancellations
Over the weekend, Governor Walz announced that Minnesota schools will be temporarily closed so school administrators and teachers can make long-term plans for the continuity of education and essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools will be closed from Wednesday, March 18 through Friday, March 27, though some schools may decide to close earlier. During this time, schools will continue providing meals to students in need, mental health services, and care for elementary-age children of health care professionals, first responders, and other emergency workers to ensure Minnesota’s first line of defense against COVID-19 can stay on the job.
If you have any questions, you can visit www.education.mn.gov or call a state hotline dedicated to schools and child care at 651-297-1304. The hotline is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Temporary Closures and Support for Impacted Workers
Yesterday, Governor Walz ordered the temporary closure of Minnesota restaurants and bars. Starting today at 5 p.m., businesses won’t be able to take dine-in customers, though takeout and delivery are permitted. Other venues, such as gyms, movie theaters, and museums, will close as well. The Governor is encouraging grocery stores and pharmacies to stay open so Minnesotans can still get the items they need.
In an effort to support the many Minnesotans affected by these closures, the Governor signed an Executive Order to strengthen Minnesota’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and ensure that workers who aren’t able to work have benefits available. If your employment has been impacted by COVID-19, Minnesota’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program may be able to help. More information about UI is available here.
Additional information for workers and employers is available at www.mn.gov/deed. A state hotline is available at 661-259-7114 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Action at the Legislature
My colleagues and I are continuing our work on behalf of the state. Late last night, we passed an emergency funding bill to help hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities address COVID-19 and ensure Minnesotans can get the care they need during this uncertain time.
For the next month, the legislature will have an altered schedule of committee hearings and floor sessions. House TV will continue to cover our work, so I encourage you to keep following our progress.
I hope this information offers answers to some of the questions you may have. Please get in touch with me if you have more questions, or if I can ever be of assistance. You can reach me at by email at rep.steve.sandell@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-1147.
Sincerely,
Steve Sandell
State Representative
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