Senate approves additional emergency coronavirus funding; extends previously scheduled Easter Recess to protect public from COVID spread

The Minnesota Senate on Monday night passed additional emergency funding of $200 million for hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical professionals on the front lines to combat the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

“We are building on last week’s emergency coronavirus funding with this additional commitment to make sure hospitals and long-term care facilities have the resources they need to fight this virus,” said Sen. Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes)

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 committee activity and floor sessions until April 14 in order to protect the public and limit the public spread of COVID-19.

“I want to make it perfectly clear that even though the Senate is temporarily suspending some operations, I will continue to be available to my constituents,” added Sen. Chamberlain. “People should still feel free to call me or email me as they normally would to voice any questions or concerns, or to set up meetings in the district or at my office. This is only temporary, and I will continue working on the issues that Minnesotans expect us to address this year.”

Residents who have concerns or questions can still direct them to Sen. Chamberlain’s office at 651-296-1253 or sen.roger.chamberlain@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: