Minnesota Senator Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson) today issued the following statement in response to Gov. Walz slightly adjusting Covid business restrictions.

“It might look like the governor is showing mercy on Minnesotans, but in reality he is just continuing his one-man rule and abusing his emergency powers. These small changes are not going to save businesses or get workers back on the job. Covid is still with us, but the emergency stage is over. It’s time to end the emergency powers and take bolder steps to reopen all businesses and schools. I trust Minnesotans to protect the health and safety of their neighbors.”

Executive Order 21-07, effective Saturday, February 13 at noon, takes the following steps:

• Increases the “not to exceed” capacity in restaurants to 250, while leaving the maximum capacity at 50 percent

• Increases indoor entertainment “not to exceed” capacity to 250, while leaving the maximum capacity at 25 percent

• Increases private events and celebrations “not to exceed” capacity to 50, while leaving the maximum capacity at 25 percent

• Increases gym and pool “not to exceed” capacity to 250, while leaving maximum capacity at 25 percent, and reducing distancing requirement to 6 feet.

• Allows restaurants to stay open until 11 p.m.