Senator Ingebrigtsen, Senate approve additional emergency coronavirus funding; enter recess to protect public from COVID spread

On Monday night the Minnesota Senate passed additional emergency funding for hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical professionals on the front lines to combat the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

“Minnesotans must continue to treat this COVID-19 outbreak seriously,” said Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria). “Today, we continued to take a proactive approach to protect Minnesota passing millions of dollars of additional funding to help hospitals and nursing homes across the state. While we continue to combat this outbreak at the capitol, I encourage everyone across Minnesota to follow the recommendations of the CDC and other health professionals in protecting their own health and welfare, as well as the health and welfare of those around them.”

Last week, the legislature unanimously approved $21 million for emergency funding to combat COVID-19. The emergency funds will allow the Minnesota Department of Health, in collaboration with state and federal officials, to support disease investigation, monitor potential cluster outbreaks, provide information to the public, coordinate statewide response activities, and conduct laboratory analysis.

Leaders of the Minnesota Legislature have also announced that beginning Tuesday, March 17, the House and Senate will alter their operations and suspend all legislative business until April 14 in order to protect the public and limit the public spread of COVID-19.

“The important work being done at the Capitol requires the participation of both legislators and the Minnesota public,” continued Senator Ingebrigtsen. “With that in mind, we feel that it is in the best interest of all Minnesotans to recess our legislative session until the people can safely participate in their democracy without fear of transmitting this disease. This is an incredibly tough decision and a solemn moment for our state. This is not us retreating or shutting down shop, but the scientifically right choice at this time. When we resume in April, we will continue the work that Minnesotans have tasked us to do. In closing, I am grateful that we are acting in unity and across the aisle during this unprecedented time.”

Residents who have concerns or questions can still direct them to Senator Ingebrigtsen’s office at 651-297-8063 or sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn  

As the COVID-19 virus unfolds in Minnesota, there are several resources that individuals can use to stay up to date on the latest information: