On Wednesday, Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order directing Minnesotans to stay home in an effort to combat the coronavirus outbreak. In response, Senator Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson) issued the following statement:
“I share concern about the health of Minnesotans given the coronavirus outbreak here and around the country. There is a lot of uncertainty going around right now and I believe we must work together to find a reasonable path forward for the wellbeing of all Minnesotans. Small businesses and employees are now experiencing significant hardships due to this unprecedented economic shutdown. As we work to end the coronavirus once and for all, I am hopeful we can do it in a way that gets our economy working again.”
Here are the facts on the governor’s order:
- The executive order goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, March 27;
- The order is in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 10;
- Bars and restaurants will remain closed until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1;
- Schools will remain closed (but will implement distance learning) until at least Monday, May 4.
There are exceptions for workers who provide “critical services”, including:
- Health care & public health workers
- Law enforcement, public safety & first responders
- Child care
- Food & agriculture
- News media
- Energy
- Water & wastewater
- Critical manufacturing
According to the governor’s order, all Minnesotans should remain in their homes unless doing one of the following, which are still permitted (if practicing social distancing):
- Health and safety activities
- Outdoor activities
- Necessary supplies & services
- Essential and interstate travel
- Care of others
- Displacement
- Relocation to ensure safety
You can find more information about which businesses and services are considered “critical” by visiting this website: https://mn.gov/deed/assets/naics-critical-list_tcm1045-424829.pdf
Please reach out to my office if there is anything I can do for you during these times. My office remains open!