Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan Update: August 14, 2020

August 14, 2020

Updates from the Governor

Governor Tim Walz today signed a $30 million package for disability service providers into law. The bill provides funding from the federal CARES Act to assist disability providers with the costs of business interruptions caused by COVID-19. It also helps ensure access to these services during and after COVID-19; makes it easier for people to apply for economic assistance programs during COVID-19; and expands the universe of providers who can access a DHS grant program that supports people with disabilities and older adults.

“The people most impacted by COVID-19 have been our most vulnerable populations – directing this funding to disability service providers will help ensure we don’t leave anyone behind,” said Governor Walz. “This bill will provide direct support to ensure Minnesotans with disabilities and older Minnesotans continue to receive critical services amid COVID-19.”

Also today, the Governor and Lt. Governor visited Dar Al Farooq mosque in Bloomington to meet with faith leaders and call for religious acceptance and unity in response to the August 6 attack on Dar Al Farooq Imam Mohamed Mukhtar as he was heading to prayer.

“Every Minnesotan deserves to be safe, and to live without fear that they will be discriminated against for their religion or the color of their skin,” said Governor Walz. “I’m honored to join faith leaders to call for unity and religious acceptance in the face of the senseless attack on Imam Mohamed Mukhtar.”

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.

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