Dear Neighbors,
Early yesterday morning, Minnesota received its very first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine. The shipments were delivered to four sites across the state: Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Sanford Bemidji Medical Center, Olmsted Medical Center, and Cass Lake Indian Health Services.
Throughout the week, Minnesota is expected to receive a total of 46,800 units of vaccine across the statewide regional vaccine distribution hubs. From there, the vaccine will be distributed to smaller hospitals or clinics, and providers will then administer the vaccine to Minnesotans, starting by protecting the life and health of those most susceptible to serious complications and those who care for them.
Last week, the Governor announced Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan. The goal is to quickly, equitably, and safely deliver the vaccine to Minnesotans in partnership with the federal government and local communities in every corner of the state.
Health care workers and long-term care residents will be the first to receive the vaccine, followed by essential workers, seniors, and people with preexisting conditions who are more likely to become seriously ill if they contract the virus. The vaccine, which won’t be mandatory, will be provided to Minnesotans at no cost. You can find more information about Minnesota’s vaccine distribution plan here.
The expected arrival of a vaccine is good news, but this process will require time and patience. In the meantime, it’s critical we do our part to protect each other, our healthcare providers, and Mercy’s hospital capacity by wearing masks, social distancing, staying home when possible, and getting tested. We’re in the final home stretch of beating this virus- let’s keep working together to do all we can to slow the spread. Read more from Mercy Hospital President Sara Criger here.
Minnesota Passes COVID-19 Assistance Package
Monday night, the Minnesota Legislature approved a new economic assistance package designed to help small businesses and workers struggling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation includes direct financial assistance to the hardest hit businesses and helps protect economic security for workers by extending unemployment benefits.
This is by no means a fix-all solution to the months of hardship our businesses and working families are experiencing, but rather a bridge to hold Minnesota together until the feds can take action. I am looking forward to serving in my new role as the as the incoming House Commerce Committee Chair to find more solutions for our mom and pop shops and workers struggling amid the pandemic.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to reach out anytime at rep.zack.stephenson@house.mn or at 651-296-5513. Your input drives my work for our Coon Rapids and Champlin families in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
For additional updates from the Capitol and community, you are welcome to follow me on my official Facebook page.
Take care and stay well.
Sincerely,
Zack Stephenson
State Representative