Dear Neighbors,
I hope you’re enjoying the slightly warmer temperatures. It looks like spring is on its way. Personally, I’m not looking forward to the “spring forward” clock change coming this weekend — but more on that next week!
Here’s an update on another busy week at the State Capitol.
Update on COVID-19
On Monday, I joined Governor Tim Walz, Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm, and legislative leaders for an update on COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. Today, the Department of Health announced the first case of the virus in Minnesota.
Minnesota is fortunate to have a strong disease surveillance system in place that relies on partnerships between the Minnesota Department of Health, local health departments, and hospital and clinic systems. We are all working together to ensure Minnesota is prepared.
Some things that Minnesotans can do to prevent the spread of illness:
- Stay home when sick with cold/flu-like symptoms.
- Cover your cough.
- Wash your hands well, and frequently.
- Avoid touching your face – especially eyes, nose, and mouth.
The Minnesota Department of Health has excellent resources and updates that you can find here.
Don’t forget about REAL ID
Beginning Oct. 1st, 2020, Minnesotans will not be able to use their standard driver’s license or ID card to board a flight. Unless they have a valid passport or another REAL ID-compliant form of identification, Minnesotans will need to go through the REAL ID process. If you want to get one on time, the Department of Public Safety recommends you apply by June 1st.
You can find all the details and start the pre-application process to speed everything along here.
Paid Family & Medical Leave passes the Minnesota House
All Minnesotans should have time to care for themselves and their loved ones. Far too many Minnesotans have to choose between a paycheck and taking care of a new baby, an aging parent, or themselves. On Thursday, Minnesota House DFLers passed paid family and medical leave legislation.
The bill would provide Minnesotans with up to 12 weeks of leave to recover from illness, bond with a new baby, or care for a loved one. Workers with qualifying family events and medical conditions could apply for leave to take care of a family member or get medical attention for themselves. They would receive a percentage of their regular wages while on leave. Employers can opt out of the program if they provide equivalent benefits.
We are committed to providing our hard-working families with greater economic security. We continue to work to encourage the Republican-led Senate to join us so that we can enact this bill into law and start helping Minnesotans.
As always, please contact me anytime with your input. I appreciate hearing from you! You can reach me at 651-296-4280 or rep.melissa.hortman@house.mn. You can also keep up with what’s happening at the Capitol by liking my legislative Facebook page and following the Minnesota House DFL on Twitter and Facebook. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Melissa Hortman