Gazelka Response to State Employee Vaccine Mandate

ST. PAUL, MN –  Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka (R- East Gull Lake) released the following statement regarding Gov. Walz’s announcement of a vaccine mandate for state agency employees:  

“The mandate issued by Gov. Walz requiring a vaccine or weekly testing on state employees does not apply to the Minnesota Senate. Instead of mandates, we will continue our policy of allowing staff and members to work remotely, and those who want to can wear a mask and get vaccinated. I believe this approach protects safety and freedom together. Our priority continues to be finding this important balance.  

“I repeat what I said yesterday: Vaccines are widely available for those who want them and are incredibly effective at preventing the spread and impact of COVID. A vaccination mandate is divisive and unproductive.” 

More on opposition to mandates:  

Twin Cities health care workers protest vaccine mandates 

Education Minnesota statement