Today, Governor Walz, alongside Minnesota Department of Management and Budget Commissioner Myron Frans, announced that Minnesota is forecasted to have a budget deficit of $2.4 billion. A deficit was expected due to the economic slowdown caused by the spread of COVID-19. While a deficit certainly isn’t ideal, thanks to several years of sound fiscal management Minnesota is well prepared to manage this deficit. With $2.3 billion in Minnesota's “rainy day” fund and over $2 billion in assistance from the federal government we are in a solid financial position. That is why it’s critical we continue to invest in what makes our state great in the first place by supporting Minnesotan’s needs in education, healthcare and housing.
Elective Surgeries to Return
Starting next week, doctors, dentists, and veterinarians who create a plan to keep patients and healthcare professionals safe may begin offering procedures, which can treat chronic conditions, prevent and cure disease, and relieve chronic pain.
Governor Walz’s executive order will allow hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and clinics – whether veterinary, medical, or dental – to resume many currently-delayed procedures once facilities have developed criteria for determining which procedures should proceed during the COVID-19 pandemic and provided a plan to maintain a safe environment for facility staff, patients, and visitors. Many of you have waited patiently in difficult situations for elective surgeries to resume. Thanks to your strength and perseverance Minnesota was able to continue to prepare for COVID-19.
Other Information
- Rep. Tabke is addressing the Shakopee City Council at 7pm with Sen. Pratt tonight. You can watch the meeting with the Shakopee City Council here. Earlier today, Rep. Tabke addressed the Scott County Board of Commissioners, and you can watch that address here.
- Tomorrow at 2:30pm, Rep. Tabke will present his bill supporting Canterbury Park and the MN Racing Commission before the House Commerce Committee. This bill gives Canterbury Park and the MN Racing Commission the flexibility they need to maintain operations as efficiently as possible during the peacetime emergency. You can watch that hearing here.
Brad Tabke, State Representative | Rep.Brad.Tabke@house.mn
Eric Petersen, Legislative Assistant | Eric.Petersen@house.mn