Week of March 16 – 23
Hearing from constituents
While I have not been taking in-person meetings this week due to our current pandemic, I have spoken with many of you about the issues weighing on your minds.
I have received about 80 emails and phone calls in the past week, and more than 70 of them have been related to COVID-19. About half of these messages have been related to health concerns, while the other half have been about economic concerns. Both are weighing heavily on me, and I’m doing what I can to see that we act on additional measures this week. Last week we stayed until 2:30am to free up over $20 million in funding for health purposes, and next on our agenda is going to be economic stimulus and tax relief.
Learning from literature
I recently picked up “Pandemic 1918” for a little historical perspective on our current situation. Hoping to learn from the experiences of the past. So far, I have learned that the world had some wonderfully altruistic people then, as well as today.
Reducing screen time for our youngest learners
You may remember from a couple weeks ago that I am working on a bill with Rep. Kelly Morrison to reduce the time 0-5 year old students spend in front of screens. I recently spoke to local reporter Eden Teller about the bill, and you can learn more about our efforts as reported in the Eden Prairie News HERE.
Social distancing – we can work it out
I hope you enjoy this updated version of the iconic album cover for Abbey Road, which reflects the current situation we live in. I hope you continue to find comfort, joy, and happiness in the simple pleasures of life.
Update on response to COVID-19
New executive orders and legislative policy
With COVID-19 continuing to spread, we are all doing our part to mitigate this pandemic and “flatten the curve.”
Since the joint update sent out last Tuesday, there have been some new developments. Governor Walz has signed several new executive orders, which will:
- Prevent price gouging on essential goods and services.Minnesotans can report instances of price gouging by calling 651-296-3353 or 800-657-3787. Callers can ask for a translator at these numbers as well. Complaints can be made online HERE.
- Create a special Open Enrollment period for uninsured Minnesotans. Individuals seeking coverage can visit MNsure.org to complete an application and enroll in coverage. Plans selected by April 21 will have a retroactive coverage start date beginning April 1.
- MNsure has a statewide network of expert assisters who can help Minnesotans apply and enroll, free of charge.
- MNsure’s online help tools can be used to access frequently requested services.
- The MNsure Contact Center is open between 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday at 651-539-2099 or 855-366-7873.
- Give the Department of Human Services Commissioner emergency authority to keep programs running for our most needy, and seek federal waivers where applicable.
- Expand unemployment benefits to Minnesotans laid off due to COVID-19
- Delay elective surgeries to keep hospitals available for those with the greatest need.
- Protect residents and staff in Veterans Homes by restricting all visitors and non-essential personnel except for end of life care.
- Exempt emergency relief efforts from certain regulations that restrict their ability to provide assistance, including limits on weight and hours of service. The Order allows for the efficient movement of essential supplies, including food, medical supplies, and household items.
- Provide paid leave for all state employees who are unable to work because of COVID-19.
Things will also be looking different in how business is done at the Legislature for the next several weeks. We are following the guidelines of the Minnesota Department of Health surrounding social distancing: six feet of distance is maintained between people, in-person meetings are being extremely limited, staff are encouraged to telecommute whenever possible, and senators are in recess, only returning to pass emergency COVID response legislation or legislation agreed upon by all legislative caucuses before heading to the floor.
Staying informed
Staying informed is essential, and if we all continue to follow these guidelines, we can flatten the curve and ensure Minnesota continues to operate in response to this pandemic effectively and efficiently. The most up-to-date information on COVID-19 from the MDH can be found HERE.
The MN Department of Health has set up a COVID-19 public hotline that is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The hotline number is 651-201-3920.
A MN Department of Public Safety hotline taking questions regarding community mitigation problems, including school and business impacts, can be found here open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily: 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903.
Do not hesitate to reach out to me for any reason, COVID-19 related or not. Please continue to write in with your comments, questions, and concerns