Tag: Rep. Edelson

Dear Neighbors,

A lot is changing every single day as we navigate how best to protect our state from COVID-19. These changes are not easy on any of us and each decision is being weighed heavily. I want you to first know I am here for you and your families.

Today Governor Walz issued a “Stay at Home” executive order effective Friday, March 27 at 11:59 p.m. until April 10 at 5:00 p.m.

Minnesotans may leave their homes only to perform any of the following activities, and while doing so, they should practice social distancing: Continue reading “Rep. Heather Edelson (HD49A) Update: March 25, 2020”

Dear Neighbors,

Early this morning, my colleagues and I reached a bipartisan, bicameral agreement on a bill to provide emergency funding to help hospitals and providers respond to COVID-19. The bill (SF 4334) received unanimous approval in the House and Senate. Click here for non-partisan coverage of the vote from Minnesota House Public Information Services.

The bill appropriates $150 million to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to make grants to eligible providers for costs related to planning for, preparing for, or responding to an outbreak of COVID-19; fund the establishment and operation of temporary sites to provide testing services, to provide treatment beds, or to isolate or quarantine affected individuals, to respond to an outbreak of COVID-19; and administer the grant program. The bill defines an “eligible provider” as an ambulance service; health care provider; health care clinic; pharmacy; health care facility or long-term care facility, including but not limited to a hospital, nursing facility, or setting where assisted living services or health care services are or may be provided; or health system. Continue reading “Rep. Heather Edelson (HD49A) Update: March 17. 2020”

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this finds you well.

Yesterday, Governor Walz has ordered K-12 public schools to close to students by Wednesday, March 18-Friday, March 27 for school administrators and teachers to make long-term plans for the continuity of education and essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a break for planning purposes on how distance learning opportunities might be delivered in the case of an extended closure, how students special education needs can be met, how to support students who are experiencing homelessness, and several other public-school service provisions. 900,000 students have been sent home in an effort to bend the curve. You can find the Governor’s executive order here.

Edina Public Schools is working to ensure students and families can stop to stop in and pick-up personal items, books, technology. They also have arranged curbside pick up for families who receive free and reduced-price lunches. Find more information here.

Please see the resource document my colleagues and I put together for up-to-date information on state agency and other resources to confront the many challenges posed by COVID-19. Continue reading “Rep. Heather Edelson (HD49A) Update: March 16, 2020”

Dear Neighbors,

Legislators have returned to St. Paul for the 2020 legislative session. It’s a new year, and we’ve already hit the ground running! I am honored to represent our Edina neighborhoods and elevate our community’s values at the Capitol for another session.

Great to visit with Edina resident Arnie Bigbee, who was here for AARP Day at the Capitol.

Last year the divided state legislature passed a balanced two-year budget for Minnesota. This year, the focus will shift toward a public infrastructure improvement projects, or ‘bonding’ bill, as well as policy focused bills. Any supplemental budgeting will be determined after the February budget forecast, which is scheduled to be released at the end of the month.

Here’s an update from St. Paul: Continue reading “Rep. Heather Edelson (HD49A) Update: February 19, 2020”