Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan Update: August 5, 2020

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August 5, 2020

Updates from the Governor

Governor Walz today announced that Minnesota businesses damaged in the civil unrest following the death of George Floyd can apply for disaster assistance through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This approval follows a letter the Governor sent to the SBA requesting that Minnesota businesses be eligible for this assistance.

Also today, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) launched an innovative pilot grant project for electric school buses that will support cleaner vehicle technology and reduce harmful air pollution. The program is another step toward achieving Minnesota’s goal of reducing GHG emissions by 80% by 2050.

MPCA plans to invest up to $3 million from the Volkswagen settlement to encourage owners of diesel-powered school buses to replace them with new electric models. Replacing one diesel bus with an electric model can reduce GHG emissions by at least 29 tons, or the equivalent of removing six passenger vehicles from Minnesota roads. Currently, there is one electric school bus in Minnesota, serving the Lakeville Public School District.

Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19

  • Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic. Wearing a mask 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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