Dear Neighbors,
Governor Walz announced today that starting Tuesday, Minnesotans 16 and older will be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. The final eligibility expansion comes as the federal government has promised an increased supply of vaccine by April. By expanding eligibility to all Minnesotans, providers across the state will have the flexibility they need to fill appointments and support the state’s most critical goal: to get as many Minnesotans vaccinated as quickly as possible to end this pandemic.
All Minnesotans who have not received a vaccine should sign up for the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector to get updates on vaccine opportunities and be entered into the random selection process for the state’s Community Vaccination Program sites. Minnesotans can also contact their healthcare provider, local pharmacy or use the Vaccine Locator Map to search for vaccine providers in their area.
While all Minnesotans will become eligible next Tuesday, not every Minnesotan will be immediately able to make an appointment. Vaccine shipments from the federal government will continue increasing over the coming weeks, but for now demand will still exceed supply.
Here’s a look at a few pieces of legislation advancing in the House:
Protecting Minnesotans from Price Gouging
On Monday this week, my bill to strengthen protections against price gouging during an emergency passed in the House. Price gouging is a predatory practice that hurts all of us, but especially those who have been most impacted by this public health crisis. At a time when money is tight and folks are struggling, we are long overdue in joining the other 35 states that have these commonsense protections in law. You can read my official statement on the bill’s passage here.
Securing Worker’s Compensation for First Responders
Last year, we passed a bill to ensure these Minnesotans on the front line of this pandemic would receive workers’ compensation if they contracted COVID-19 or were exposed to it on the job. That provision is set to expire on May 1, but first responders are still in a vulnerable position- especially with new variants of the virus appearing across the west metro. Yesterday, with my support, we passed a bill that would extend that deadline. Nurses, doctors, paramedics, EMTs, firefighters, police officers, correctional officers, and child care workers are covered under this proposal.
Keep in Touch
Please continue reaching out with input, ideas, or questions at rep.zack.stephenson@house.mn or 651-296-5513.
Working for you and with you, is an honor. Let me know how I can provide assistance anytime.
Enjoy the weekend.
Sincerely,
Zack Stephenson
State Representative