Senator Jason Rarick (R-Pine City) released the following statement in response to Governor Tim Walz loosening of his restrictions on businesses implemented on November 21:  

“I’m glad to see Governor Walz loosening the restrictions and putting Minnesota on a path that will allow us to open up. That said, Governor Walz continues to implement broad COVID-19 restrictions as if the same rules that are needed in Minneapolis are necessary for Pine City and countless other communities across Greater Minnesota.  Governor Walz’s prolonged shutdowns have put numerous Minnesotan families and businesses in grim economic situations, and the data hasn’t shown that it has worked better than our neighboring states. As a result, most Minnesotans are facing hard financial choices. With the legislature back in session, Governor Walz should work with us, reach across the aisle, and develop collective solutions that allow Minnesotans to safely return to school, work, and their regular lives.”