House activity to remain mostly remote during 2022 session

The Minnesota House will continue to meet largely via video in 2022.

“As we prepare for the 2022 session, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to bring uncertainty. We had hoped for a normal return to session, but like private and public sector employers that have had to postpone plans for a return to in-person work, the House will continue remote and hybrid operations at least through the end of the 2022 regular session. This decision was not made lightly, but with full consideration for the health and safety of members, staff, and the public, as well as the need to minimize disruptions to legislative business while ensuring the public’s ability to participate in the legislative process,” House Speaker Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park) wrote in a Thursday email to House members and staff. She said the policy may change as health and safety conditions evolve.

House committees will continue to meet remotely, although Hortman said room 120 in the State Capitol, which will have the technological capability for hybrid meetings, could be used if necessary. Floor sessions will remain hybrid, with members encouraged to attend in person.

The State Office Building will remain closed to the public.

“The mask mandate remains in place in any shared space in the SOB or space under House control in the Capitol. Masks are required on the House floor. This mandate applies to all persons, regardless of vaccination status,” Hortman wrote.