Preparing for the Special Session; Working with the POCI Caucus for Justice and Reform
The governor has called us into a special session starting this Friday. We have a lot of work to do during this special session to pass more COVID-19 legislation, a local jobs and projects bill, and true criminal justice reform. We are ready to work until the job gets done, there is a lot we need to accomplish and working too hastily would be a disservice to the people of Shakopee.
The events over the last two weeks have made clear the need for police reform and accountability to our communities. As a legislature I can not stand by while injustice persists around our state. I am committed to pursuing a more just Minnesota and I am happy to support a number of proposed policies from my colleagues in the People of Color and Indigenous Caucus that center on:
- Reform the investigation and prosecution of officer-involved deaths and wrongful actions
- Increase police accountability and transparency
- Raise standards of conduct and support officer excellence
- Partner officers with the communities they serve
- Repair and build community trust and create community-centered public safety
These reforms are likely to change and evolve as we head into this session, but I am committed to listening to and supporting my POCI Caucus colleagues. It is time to stand up for systemic change, to lead as a state so that we don’t have to feel this pain again.
Beginning of New COVID-19 Rules
Limited re-opening of dine-in restaurants, gyms, and entertainment venues will begin today. Occupancy rates will be limited based on risk, with an overall occupancy maximum of 250 people. All critical businesses are required to develop and implement a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan by June 29, and the Department of Health (MDH), Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), and Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) will publish industry guidance by June 15. Under Phase III of the Stay Safe MN plan:
- Restaurants can begin offering indoor dining while maintaining social distancing, requiring reservations, and seating no more than 50 percent occupancy.
- Indoor social gatherings can take place with 10 people or less; outdoor social gatherings can take place with 25 people or less.
- Gyms, personal fitness and yoga studios, and martial arts may open at 25 percent capacity.
- Indoor entertainment venues, such as theaters and concert halls, can open at 25 percent capacity.
- Recreational indoor entertainment venues, such as bowling alleys, arcades, and museums may open at 25 percent capacity.
- Personal services, such as salons, tattoo parlors, and barbershops, may increase occupancy rates to 50 percent while requiring reservations.
- Outdoor entertainment venues, such as sporting events, concerts, and theaters may open at 25 percent capacity.
- Places of worship can increase occupancy rates to 50 percent.
For full details on the opening and helpful guidance please visit this site https://staysafe.mn.gov/
Helpful Community Information
- Grocery distribution this Saturday from 11am-12:30pm in Shakopee and Bloomington. We need volunteers! Find out more about the event here.
- Road Testing is now available in Plymouth. For all information about what you need to bring in order to be permitted to take the test, visit the DVS website here.
- The Shakopee Clean Up Day has been rescheduled for July 18. Here is everything you need to know about that event.
Brad Tabke, State Representative | Rep.Brad.Tabke@house.mn
Addie Miller, Legislative Assistant | adeline.miller@house.mn