From the June 12, 2020 DFL Dispatch:
Following the advice of public health experts, senior advocates, labor leaders, doctors, hospital associations, and long-term care providers, Governor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 20-75, extending the COVID-19 peacetime emergency that gives the state flexibility in responding to the ever-changing and diverse needs of Minnesotans during the evolving pandemic.
The peacetime emergency continues to allow the state to take swift action as necessary to protect the health and well-being of our communities, businesses, and families. From protections against evictions and wage garnishment to providing expedited procurement power for PPE and protections for workers from unsafe conditions – the peacetime emergency allows the State to open our toolbox to ensure critical relief and resources for all Minnesotans during this ongoing pandemic.
Over 50 community and public health organizations have written to the Governor and Lt. Governor, explaining how the peacetime emergency has allowed them to protect Minnesotans and requesting it be extended. On June 9, two studies revealed that stay home orders have saved millions of lives worldwide. Additionally, every other state in the country has declared a state of emergency allowing governors and other officials to quickly respond to rapidly-evolving threats stemming from COVID-19. 54 out of 55 declarations in U.S. states and territories are still in effect. If the peacetime emergency ends, it would jeopardize over $50 million each month in federal funding.
Also today, the Governor and Lt. Governor watched the posthumous pardon hearing for Max Mason. As the Lt. Governor said, “The murder of George Floyd did not happen in a vacuum. We are long overdue to address systems of racism and oppression in this state. That’s why ensuring justice for Max Mason matters. I’m grateful for the work and dedication of all of those who made a posthumous pardon possible.”
Please see below for tweets that you may share out with your networks. Also, attached are letters of support urging the Governor and Lt. Governor to extend the peacetime emergency once again.
Today, following the advice of public health experts, senior advocates, labor, doctors, hospitals, and long-term care providers, @GovTimWalz extended the COVID-19 peacetime emergency so the state can continue responding to the rapidly-evolving pandemic.
The peacetime state of emergency has allowed @GovTimWalz to open the state’s toolbox and take quick, decisive action to protect Minnesotans through the COVID-19 pandemic. An extension will ensure that Minnesotans continue to receive much-needed support and relief as the pandemic evolves.
The pandemic is not over, and we must work together to put public health first. Grateful to @GovTimWalz for extending the peacetime emergency, allowing the state to continue taking swift action as necessary to protect the well-being of our communities, businesses and families.