Minnesota Outdoor Activities Opening
The Governor issued a few Executive Orders (EO) today, one of which pertains to outdoor activities, EO 20-38. These outdoor areas will still be subject to Center for Disease Control and Minnesota Department of Health guidelines. The additional outdoor activities opening include:
• State parks and recreational areas
• Water access points
• Marinas and dock services
• Golf courses and driving ranges
• Off highway vehicle trails
• Lake service providers
• Bait shops
• Outdoor shooting ranges and game farms
A full list of the Governor’s executive orders can be found here.
Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) COVID-19 Grants
MDVA continues to serve our Veterans and their families as they deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. There has been a tremendous response to the COVID-19 Disaster Relief and Special Needs Grants for Minnesota Veterans. Applications have been flooding in since Monday, April 6th and MDVA has received more than 2,700 applications to date. There have been 103 grants awarded so far.
Applications will continue to be accepted until the $6.2 million in funds are depleted. Veterans can apply through their County Veterans Service Officers or online at MinnesotaVeteran.org/COVIDRelief.
Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act
Earlier this week, the Governor signed the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act, a bill that will help thousands of Minnesotans get the insulin they need at a price they can afford. This legislation, which is named after a young man who lost his life because he couldn’t afford insulin, ensures that people in urgent need of insulin can access an emergency 30-day supply at their pharmacy. It also includes measures to help Minnesotans who need long-term assistance. More information is available here.
Take-out Beer/Wine Bill
Today the Legislature passed a bill that authorizes restaurants and bars the ability to sell a bottle of wine and a six pack of beer to consumers purchasing take-out food. All alcohol must be in its original packaging, meaning mixed drinks and cocktails aren’t included in the bill. Also, restaurants must ensure the person picking up the order is at least 21. This measure will last for the entirety of the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Walz is expected to sign this bill into law as soon as it reaches his desk.
Hopefully this small step will help bring in additional revenues to our local bars and restaurants during these tough times.
If you have any questions or wish to unsubscribe from this Newsletter please feel free to contact my office at 651-296-2556 or by email at sen.jerry.newton@senate.mn.
Thank you and have a great weekend,
Jerry Newton
State Senator
District 37