May 29, 2020
Updates from the Governor
This morning, Governor Walz held a press briefing to address the state’s response to protests and public safety concerns in Minnesota. He was joined by Attorney General Keith Ellison, National Guard Major General Jon Jensen, Public Safety Commissioner Harrington, and Minnesota State Patrol Colonel Matt Langer. The Governor described how this week has been one of the most difficult in our state’s history and how the state plans to support Minnesotans’ right to protest while keeping Minnesotans, first responders, communities, and small businesses safe.
This afternoon, Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman announced murder and manslaughter charges against former Officer Chauvin, who killed George Floyd on May 25. The Governor responded, saying “Former Officer Chauvin’s actions were horrific. His arrest is a good first step toward justice for George Floyd. But it doesn’t change the systemic problems and persistent inequities that led to his death or the pain our communities live with every day. We’re committed to change.“
Finally, Governor Walz today implemented a temporary nighttime curfew that will provide safety for Minnesota residents from individuals who have engaged in unlawful and dangerous activity in recent days and threatened the security of lawful demonstrators and first responders.
The temporary curfew is scheduled from 8pm to 6am tonight (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday) night. During the curfew, no one may travel on Minneapolis and Saint Paul streets or public places, except for first responders, members of the media, people going back and forth to work, individuals seeking emergency care or fleeing danger, and people experiencing homelessness. Curfews are not limited to Minneapolis and Saint Paul, mayors across the state can issue their own curfews.
“It’s time to rebuild our community and that starts with safety in our streets,” said Governor Walz.“Thousands of Minnesotans have expressed their grief and frustration in a peaceful manner. But the unlawful and dangerous actions of others, under the cover of darkness, has caused irreversible pain and damage to our community. This behavior has compromised the safety of bystanders, businesses, lawful demonstrators, and first responders. Now, we come together to restore the peace.”
Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan will continue to pursue justice for George Floyd. As we await the process of our justice system, we must be safe. We must protect each other. And we must rebuild. Starting in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and across our state and country.
Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19
- Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic wearing masks helps control the virus and has been shown to lower COVID-19 spread.
- Avoid enclosed spaces with groups of people, where the virus can linger in the air for long periods of time.
- Get tested if you have cold or flu-like symptoms – Find testing locations.
- Stay six feet away from others.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or sleeve, or a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterwards.
- Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
- Up-to-date guidance is available from the Department of Health.
Resources
- Visit mn.gov/covid19 to learn more about Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response and Preparation
- Find a testing location in your community
- CDC Situation Updates
- Apply for Unemployment Insurance
- Minnesota Department of Health Updates
- About COVID-19