Today Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm announced plans to expand vaccination efforts to low-income groups and minority communities. Senator Karin Housley (R-Stillwater) issued the following statement in response:

“I recognize the need for equity in vaccination efforts, but I just cannot understand why Walz and MDH are already presenting plans for expanding vaccination groups when we have just barely begun vaccinating our seniors,” said Senator Housley. “Less than 15% of our seniors aged 65+ have received both doses of the vaccine, despite claims that these seniors are being prioritized. 89% of Minnesota’s COVID-related deaths are seniors, yet we can’t even get the vaccines out to them. There’s no reason Governor Walz should even be considering expanding efforts until all of our seniors that want the vaccine have been given the opportunity to get it. My heart breaks more and more every day for these seniors that are stuck in their homes, waiting for an answer to a life-or-death question. The vaccines are here, and our most vulnerable Minnesotans are being told they’ll be prioritized, only to see news everyday demonstrating the exact opposite. Governor Walz is completely neglecting them and I will continue to be a voice for our seniors that have been left behind. Governor Walz can’t hide behind the claim that vaccines are limited if he’s already looking to expand distribution. No more excuses, Governor—use the vaccines available to put our Seniors First.”