Dear Neighbors,
We’re getting a clearer picture of when more Minnesotans could expect to receive the COVID vaccine. Supply is still not meeting the great demand, but we’re currently on track to vaccinate 70% of Minnesotans age 65 and older by the end of this month. Once we meet that important milestone, we’ll begin the process of vaccinating those who are at a high risk for workplace exposure and people with certain underlying health conditions. In following the state’s vaccine timeline, all Minnesotans will have the opportunity to get vaccinated this summer.
This week’s news on the approval of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine means the date of a vaccine for the general public might even be sooner, with President Biden announcing that a new deal between drug manufacturers could lead to vaccines for all adults in the US by May. If you haven’t already, be sure to sign up for Minnesota’s Vaccine Connector, which will help you find out when, where, and how to get a COVID-19 vaccine.
Minnesota’s Economic Outlook
February’s Budget and Economic Forecast saw a positive balance of $1.6 billion for our state, a far cry from the $1.27 billion shortfall that was predicted last year. While parts of our economy are recovering financially, this is not a shared experience for all Minnesotans, with too many families still struggling to get by during this pandemic.
We can’t build back better by cutting our way out of this pandemic. In the Minnesota House, we’re continuing to craft a budget that invests in the values that lift up and protect all Minnesotans, and part of that work should include our state’s wealthiest 1% of corporations and individuals paying their fair share. You can read more about the most recent economic forecast and what it means for our state here.
Stay Connected
Other notable items from this week include legislation to combat systemic racism, a conversation on how to close the swimming gap, and a bill promoting automatic voter registration. One important update outside of our legislative work is the recent naming of Minnesota’s newest snowplow – Plowy McPlowface. Let me know if you see it on the roads!
If you have any questions or comments on our work in the Minnesota House, feel free to contact me at rep.michael.howard@house.mn or (651) 296-7158. I look forward to hearing from you.
In partnership,
Michael Howard