Statement from Speaker Hortman on legislative activity

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA— Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman released the following statement on legislative activity:

“State Representatives are working to craft measures to assist Minnesotans coping with the COVID-19 pandemic and its related disruptions. We know that Minnesotans are facing significant medical concerns and financial hardships, and the Minnesota House of Representatives is working hard with the goal of a legislative session on Thursday to pass legislation to safeguard their health and economic well-being.

“The House is working via informal working groups, which mirror the existing committee structure. We are working to create opportunities for the public to engage and offer their feedback. In addition to reaching out to their representatives directly, members of the public may use a feedback form on the House website. We are working to implement a virtual committee hearing process that would be open to the public as soon as possible. DFL State Representatives alone have received input from and responded to thousands of constituents over the last week. We encourage members of the public to continue reaching out to their legislators.

“The goal of the House working group process is reaching agreement on COVID-19 relief legislation that is ready to pass the Minnesota House and Senate — potentially Thursday. Whether we have a House floor session will depend on whether or not legislation is agreed to by all four caucuses and is ready to pass, and that the legislation provides Minnesotans with further relief than the Governor is able to deliver via executive order. If we convene, we will convene in a manner consistent with guidelines from the Minnesota Department of Health. As Speaker, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of our members and our staff as we serve Minnesotans. Legislators are working together to address Minnesotans’ needs in this public health emergency.”