June 6, 2020
Updates from the Governor
We know that Minnesota is fighting two viruses right now. One that appeared in our state just months ago, and one that has existed for generations. Governor Walz spent the week responding to COVID-19 and charting a path forward, in partnership with communities that have been impacted by systemic racism, after the death of George Floyd. Below is a recap of major announcements and decisions of the previous week.
Week in Review
On Monday, June 1 Governor Walz modified and extended the Minneapolis-St. Paul nighttime curfew to provide safety for Minnesota residents, neighborhoods, businesses and communities. Throughout the week, the Governor’s office provided regular situation updates to Minnesotans and members of the press with the latest information on public safety.
On Tuesday, June 2 Governor Walz announced the Minnesota Department of Human Rights will begin an investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) after filing a civil rights charge related to the death of George Floyd. This investigation into policies, procedures, and practices over the past 10 years will determine if the MPD has engaged in systemic discriminatory practices towards people of color and ensure any such practices are stopped. Minnesotans with information that can further the investigation into the MPD should contact the Department of Human Rights at mn.gov/mdhr or 651-539-1100.
On Wednesday, June 3 Governor Walz activated the Minnesota National Guard to provide protection for Clay County and surrounding areas during demonstrations planned in North Dakota in the wake of George Floyd’s death. Attorney General Keith Ellison announced that he charged all four officers involved in George Floyd’s death, and announced that he increased the charge against former officer Derek Chauvin to second degree murder.
On Thursday, June 4 The Department of Health reiterated their recommendation that any Minnesotan who has attended a protest, vigil, or community clean-up get tested for COVID-19. Find a testing location near you.
On Friday, June 5 Governor Walz announced a turning of the dial to open up more of society across the state. Starting Wednesday, June 10, people will be able to head inside to restaurants and bars. Gyms and fitness studios can resume operations. Pools will be open across the state. The Governor also announced that his administration and the City of Minneapolis have agreed on immediate changes to the MPD’s policies.
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