Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan Weekly Update: October 16, 2020

Governor Walz Weekly Briefing

Walz, Flanagan Applaud Bipartisan Passage of Bonding Bill

bonding

Thursday, Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan applauded the bipartisan passage of the bonding bill. “This bonding bill is a smart investment that will create thousands of good-paying jobs, deliver improvements to local projects throughout Minnesota, and make our state a better place to live,” said Governor Walz. “It’s been a long journey. By finally coming together and working across the aisle, Minnesota proved once again that if Washington won’t lead—we will.

Governor Walz Announces Expansion of Saliva Testing Program

Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced the expansion of the state’s saliva testing program, including the opening of new saliva testing sites and a pilot of the mail order program. Semi-permanent saliva testing sites will open in Moorhead on October 17 and Brooklyn Park on October 20. These sites will offer free saliva tests to any Minnesotan who believes they need to be tested, as part of the state’s strategy to provide easy access to quick, reliable testing.

Saliva testing is already underway in Duluth since September 23 and testing will begin in Winona tomorrow. In addition to the new Brooklyn Park and Moorhead locations, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) will open an additional six sites later this month—two in Greater Minnesota and four more in the metro area—for a total of 10 such sites across the state. Details on those locations will be announced when available. Full details can be found on the COVID-19 Community Saliva Testing website.

Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan Invest Additional $53.3 Million to Support Child Care Providers Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

This week, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced a $53.3 million investment to support child care providers and protect Minnesota families’ access to child care during the COVID-19 pandemic. This critical investment will be funded through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. In total during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Administration has invested approximately $188 million to help support child care needs for families.

Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan Hear from Minnesota Manufacturers

On Wednesday, Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Steve Grove held a virtual roundtable discussion with manufacturing representatives from across Minnesota to highlight manufacturing’s vital role in supporting and revitalizing Minnesota’s economy during the COIVD-19 pandemic. “I heard from manufacturing representatives about how we can partner to help the industry overcome challenges posed by COVID-19. These jobs are going to be key in our economic recovery,” said Governor Walz.

Governor Walz Goes Pheasant Hunting on Opening Weekend

On Sunday, Governor Walz took part in the opening weekend of Minnesota’s 2020 pheasant hunting season. In accordance with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Minnesota Department of Health guidelines, Governor Walz hunted in a small group while practicing social distancing.

“Pheasant hunting is a fall rite of passage in Minnesota,” said Governor Tim Walz. “Good luck to any hunters taking part in this time-honored—and socially distant—Minnesota tradition. As a lifetime Pheasants Forever member, I want to thank the Blue Earth County team for their conservation work that makes this sport possible. I also want to thank John Benson and Blaine Phillips for their hospitality, and of course, my sweet four-legged hunting partner, Freja.”