South Hennepin News

The Minnesota House of Representatives is still debating their response to the COVID-19 pandemic as Gov. Tim Walz extends the stay-at-home order.

Rep. Joe McDonald stresses that the health and safety of all Minnesotans is the utmost priority in a legislative update.

Data from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) estimated no discernible difference in mortality rates if the stay-at-home order was to continue for those at risk or if the order was to continue for all citizens.

Walz chose the latter option and declared the stay-at-home order to continue for all citizens for the next four weeks.

McDonald recognizes both sides of the issue.

On one hand, small business owners are urging the legislature to get back to work and for the state to open up again, however on the other hand, citizens are still concerned for their health.

“Sadly, for some, it already is too late,” McDonald said.

McDonald is sympathetic to the state opening back up because the MDH does not predict adverse repercussions.

“The governor’s own data shows that we can begin the process of bringing our economy back and still uphold public safety by protecting the vulnerable and continuing to observe social distancing,” McDonald said.

He said the data was the leading force in “balanced solutions” but the proposition was voted down by the majority in the house.

Although the majority of the house was not ready to open the state up again, they did pass additional COVID-19 legislature.

The COVID-19 legislature approved on April 13 provided relief for farmers, extended deadlines and increased the amount of remote participation that the public could engage with the legislature such as allowing marriage licenses to applied for online. The bill also implemented many aspect of the CARES Act, and covered testing for the COVID-19 virus.

The House also approved a bill that made insulin more affordable for Minnesotan residents. The insulin package also makes sure that insulin affordability continues to be accessible indefinitely for those in emergency situations.

McDonald also supports legislation to allow restaurants and bars to serve beer and wine with take-out orders.