This article was originally posted on 11-15-2020

Legislative Update - Nov 12, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

Updates Return
With the campaign season ending we can return to our regular email updates covering everything happening at the Legislature and around Minnesota. Thank you all for choosing me to represent you again over the next two years. The next two years will be difficult for Minnesota, and I plan to stand up for our community every step of the way.

New Covid-19 Rules as Virus Reaches Record Levels
Unfortunately, Covid is spreading at record levels throughout the country, including here in Minnesota where we are approaching our capacity to manage the virus. Governor Walz has announced a number of new actions designed to reign in the virus. First, Governor Walz announced the addition of more than a dozen new testing locations opening across the state over the next two weeks. All of the new testing sites will continue to offer free, “no barrier” COVID-19 testing. Testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. These sites will be open at least through the end of the year with logistical aid provided by the National Guard. It is critical that we test as much as possible so we can trace how the virus is spreading and implement the necessary isolation.For more information on how and where to receive a COVID-19 test, visit mn.gov/covid19/.

On Tuesday, Governor Walz announced new restrictions on bars and restaurants. This includes a 10 p.m. curfew, no bar seating, and an indoor cap of 150 people at 50% total capacity. Weddings, funeral attendance, and large private gatherings will also be curtailed in a phased approach to a 25-person cap. No one wants to see increased restrictions; we are all fatigued by the ongoing fight against COVID-19. But these restrictions are necessary to help reverse the spread of this virus and save lives. We aren't at a point where we can return to normal. These restrictions are a direct result of Minnesotans returning to too many pre-covid activities without taking the proper preventative measures. I understand that this is difficult, but we must remain strict when managing this virus. For everyone's sake, please continue to limit gatherings, wear masks, and social distance.


Veterans Day
Wednesday, November 11th, was Veteran's Day. We extend our most heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude to all those who have served our country. All veterans deserve to be honored and supported by the government, where needed, for the sacrifices they have made. We have to do what we can to support veterans where possible. That is why I support the Veterans Restorative Justice Act, which diverts most veterans with service-connected trauma, substance abuse, or mental health conditions from serving jail-time towards probation and social services. This is an important step to help these troubled veterans break from the recidivism cycle and truly reform.



Mayor for a Day Essay Contest
The League of Minnesota Cities is running a “Mayor for a Day” essay contest. This would be perfect if you are a teacher or have a child or grandchild interested in government! Open to fourth, fifth, and sixth graders. Enter the Mayor for a Day Essay Contest for a chance to win and be published. Visit the League of Minnesota Cities for details.

Stay in Touch
Please feel free to reach out to me by email at rep.sandra.masin@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-3533. If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative who wants to receive updates about the Legislature, let them know they can subscribe to my email list here. You can also follow me on Facebook here. It’s an honor to represent our community. Please stay in touch.
 

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