SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Today, Governor Tim Walz issued executive orders to ensure critical services continue for the state’s most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Executive Order 20-11 authorizes the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to seek federal authority to temporarily waive or modify certain requirements for federal programs, including the Minnesota Family Investment Program, Medical Assistance, and MinnesotaCare, to ensure these programs continue providing necessary support to Minnesota families.
Executive Order 20-12 allows DHS to temporarily issue waivers or modifications to state requirements to ensure that their services can be delivered to Minnesotans safely and without undue delay, protecting vulnerable Minnesotans and those who care for them. DHS provides health care coverage, programs, and services for over 1 million Minnesotans, including groups likely to be significantly impacted by COVID-19 such as older adults, individuals who have disabilities, families with children, and individuals with mental illness.
Rep. Tina Liebling, chair of the House Health and Human Services Finance Division, issued the following statement:
“The services many vulnerable Minnesotans rely on are still necessary during the global pandemic. DHS and their partner organizations need flexibility to deliver these services. Lawmakers worked diligently across party lines and with Governor Walz’s administration to reach consensus on giving DHS this emergency authority. Our work is reflected in what the Governor announced today. I thank Governor Walz and DHS Commissioner Harpstead for their leadership. Today’s executive order will help ensure that services for people with disabilities, mental health support, childcare, housing, and other critical public health programs and services can continue. We will keep working to ensure that all Minnesotans can be safe, healthy, and well during this challenging time.”