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

W
July 14, 2020

Updates from the Governor

Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan know that communities across the state are struggling with the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. For some Minnesotans, a lost job or unexpected expenses have put their housing at risk.

That’s why today, at West Broadway Crescent Apartments, the Governor and Lt. Governor announced a $100 million housing assistance program to help prevent evictions, prevent homelessness, and maintain housing stability for individuals and families impacted by COVID-19. The $100 million investment will be funded with federal dollars through the Coronavirus Relief Fund, which was authorized by the CARES Act.

The Walz-Flanagan Administration has been working to combat homelessness and housing instability long before and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Minnesota Interagency Council on Homelessness, the Administration has been working with communities to provide funding for outreach, shelter, and critical services. When the COVID-19 pandemic began in Minnesota, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor fought for state appropriations and provided more than $26 million to help shelters and street outreach workers give Minnesotans a safe place to go, creating more than 2,100 additional safe spaces statewide.

The Governor has helped maintain housing stability for Minnesotans struggling to afford their rent by suspending evictions. State resources have also been used to partner with local communities and connect those who were outside with hotel rooms and trained staff during the protests that followed George Floyd’s death.

The Governor continues to work with the legislature toward police reform and accountability and building a stronger and more equitable economy for all Minnesotans. He also is supporting a proposal to support veterans by expanding veterans courts statewide. These courts help keep our veterans out of jail, giving them a second chance for offenses related to military service and access to rehabilitation.

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

Coverage