Category: SD48

Neighbors,

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took their oath of office this week against a backdrop of political division, a worldwide pandemic, and the economic fallout of COVID-19. I am optimistic their leadership will provide a path to heal our nation and, during this difficult time, it is a hopeful sign that our democracy endures.

Vaccine distribution update

The federal government instructed states to open vaccinations to everyone over 65 and the state has set up nine pilot sites across Minnesota to administer the vaccines. While appointments are currently full, check back on the site. Available spots will refresh every Tuesday at noon. The vaccine supply is limited, but this program will help our state prepare to distribute vaccines quickly and equitably when they become available. We are receiving about 65,000 doses a week and from what I am reading, it will be April before that number significantly increases.

The vaccination program continues to be impactful and we are reaching seniors, who have been hit so tragically hard by this disease. All 369 of our skilled nursing homes received their first dose and are on track to finish vaccinations in both residents and staff by early February. Last week seniors living in assisted living centers began receiving their first doses and vaccinations to this group should be completed by the end of February.

Neighbors,

This legislative session we will work on action to support Minnesotans and protect their economic security during the pandemic. Committees are meeting and we’ve heard from agencies about their work and how they partner with the Legislature.

For each committee, the focus has been on updating the pandemic response including the hopeful news on the roll-out of vaccinations.

In the Early Childhood committee, which I service as vice-chair, we learned about the importance of continuing grants to childcare providers to assist in keeping them open in difficult times.

Neighbors,

I am grateful to the residents of 48A for the privilege of serving you in the House of Representatives. Following public health guidelines, we will continue to operate remotely in the Minnesota House, but we will ensure openness and transparency for the public.

The legislative session convened on Tuesday and like many other unique pandemic-related experiences, we were sworn in remotely via Zoom.

Taking our oath of office in shifts via Zoom!

New Committees

I am excited to announce that I have been appointed as Vice Chair of the Early Childhood Finance and Policy committee where I will continue to advocate for our littlest learners from a leadership role. I will also serve on Health Finance and Policy, Preventative Health Policy and Rules and Legislative Administration.

The House has expanded the number of simultaneous committees it can webcast live from a maximum of two to five, so you can stay currrent on issues moving through committees this budget session. 

Visit the committee home pages of my committees to follow our work this session:

Early Childhood Finance and Policy
Health Finance and Policy
Preventative Health Policy Division
Rules and Legislative Administration

New Public Health Guidance 

As a result of our collective efforts, the COVID-19 spread has slowed across the state. Recognizing our progress – but understanding we need to remain cautious – Governor Walz announced yesterday the opening more activities and sectors of the economy.

Beginning January 11:

• Indoor dining at bars and restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity, with a maximum of 150 people. Parties of no more than six people must remain six feet from other parties; bar seating is open to parties of two; reservations are required; and establishments must close dine-in service by 10 p.m.
• Gym capacity remains capped at 25 percent but maximum capacity increases to 150 and classes can increase to 25 people, assuming distancing can be observed. Machines and people must maintain 9 feet of distance. Face coverings are required.
• Outdoor events and entertainment continue at 25 percent capacity, but maximum capacity increases to 250 people. Social distancing is required.
• Indoor events and entertainment – like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums – may open at 25 percent, with no more than 150 people in each area of the venue. Face coverings are required, and they may not offer food service after 10 p.m.
• Youth and adult organized sports have resumed practice as of January 4 and games resume January 14 with spectators, following the appropriate capacity limits for indoor or outdoor venues. Inter-region tournaments and out of state play are discouraged.
• Places of worship remain open at 50% capacity but without an overall maximum capacity.

Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19

• Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic (are not experiencing any symptoms). Wearing masks helps control the virus and has been shown to lessen 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.
• 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.

Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to call or email me any time. You can also connect with me on Facebook here. It’s an honor to represent you at the State Capitol.

Sincerely,

Laurie Pryor
State Representative

Neighbors,

Earlier this week, Congress approved a $900 billion COVID-19 assistance package. Businesses and families need this boost from the federal government to manage the economic fallout from the virus.

At the time this update is being sent, there is still uncertainty about the final version of the aid bill. This is exactly why the legislature passed – and governor signed – a COVID-19 Economic Assistance Package to help businesses and workers survive this economic crisis.

New laws take effect

Two significant new laws will take effect on January 1. One law will modify how sexual assault kits are tested and stored. It aims to ensure the kits are stored properly and extends the time that untested kits are retained, giving survivors more time to change their mind about having the evidence analyzed. The other will improve continuity of care via shortened timelines for prior authorization and access to information about health care plans. You can read more about these laws here.