(ST. PAUL, MN) – Senate Republicans welcomed the continued help from the Trump Administration and FEMA this month, especially the delivery of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) to Minnesota hospitals, clinics and nursing homes. During the month of April alone, the Trump Administration has delivered:
- 440,500 N-95 Masks
- 1,837,100 Surgical & Procedural Masks
- 93,600 Eye & Face Shields
- 519,500 Isolation & Surgical Gowns
- 34,417,800 Surgical & Exam Gloves
The PPE was delivered through Project Air Bridge, a coordinated public-private partnership designed to expedite the movement of critical supplies from other countries to the United States. Additional PPE came directly from the Strategic National Stockpile to Minnesota.
“We are extremely grateful for the cooperation of the Trump Administration in delivering much-needed PPE to Minnesota,” said Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka. “Our number one priority is preparing for the surge and PPE is a critical part of that. The only way we can safely return Minnesota back to work is to solidify our supply of hospital beds, ICU beds and PPE. The supplies we’ve received from the Federal government combined with our state efforts should put us in position to end the stay at home order after May 4, 2020.”
“The influx of PPE to Minnesota from the federal branch is great news,” said Senator Mark Koran (R-North Branch). “Not only will it get us one step closer to returning to normal, but it is imperative for re-opening elective procedures soon. There is only so long people can go without routine care, and health professionals should feel safe providing their essential services.”
In addition to PPE supplies, the Trump Administration also granted Governor Walz’s request for a major disaster declaration on April 7, 2020. The attached handout details other Federal help for Minnesota in the areas of small business, health and human services, housing, education, agriculture, veterans and the judiciary. Minnesota and eligible local government also will receive $2.1 billion in direct stimulus from the Federal government, with $1.1 billion already delivered.