Today, Senator Eric Pratt (R-Prior Lake), chair of the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Finance and Policy Committee, issued the following statement regarding the changes to Senate operations due to the coronavirus:

“We are in the midst of an unprecedented public health emergency. In response, the Minnesota Senate will pass legislation today that provides emergency funding to hospitals and long-term care facilities – critical links in our care chain that are preparing for an influx of COVID-19 cases.

“Public health officials are advising us to temporarily avoid large gatherings and limit public contact. In light of this guidance, after our votes later today, the Minnesota Senate will be suspending all public meetings until Tuesday, April 14. While I do not believe we should panic and allow fear to disrupt our lives, I agree it is a wise decision to avoid large public gatherings at the State Capitol. I also want to reassure Scott County residents that my office will remain open in a limited, safe manner. Please continue to contact my office by e-mail or by phone; I am still able to conduct meetings in a manner of which everyone is comfortable.

“This is truly a period of uncertainty unlike any we’ve seen, but I know Minnesotans are strong and resilient. If we heed the advice of public health experts, this short-term discomfort will be worth it. For more information on the spread of the coronavirus in Minnesota and the best preventive measures, visit the Minnesota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control.”

Senator Eric Pratt, of Prior Lake, represents Scott County in the Minnesota Senate. He serves as chair of the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Finance and Policy Committee and is an assistant majority leader.