Legislative Update: January 13, 2021

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Dear neighbors, 

I am honored to continue serving our community in the Minnesota House of Representatives. 

The 2021 Legislative Session began on January 5th, and adherent to public health guidelines, many of our members took the oath of office virtually, and we anticipate doing the majority of our work remotely this session to keep our community safe and prevent potential COVID spreads.

On Last Week's News

Election disinformation and inciting violence on our nation’s Capital is an attack on democracy. The insurrection in Washington D.C should serve as a final wake up call for all elected officials, national and local, to unite in the face of violence and restore trust in our democratic system. We must come together as a nation to not only condemn, but take action and heal our communities from the assault we witnessed from our screens on January 6. 

The Minnesota State Capital will take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all lawmakers and staff. We will not tolerate or normalize unacceptable, undemocratic, and un-American behavior that harms the foundation of our community.

Hennepin County Urgent Deadline

Through bipartisan efforts, small business and nonprofit relief grants are now available throughout the state. The online grant application process can be accessed here until January 14th, 2021 in Hennepin County. Do not hesitate to reach out if you require  assistance or have questions about the application.

Loosened COVID Restrictions Now In Place

Thanks to our combined efforts of adhering to public health guidelines, COVID cases are are on a downward trajectory in Minnesota. In response, Governor Walz has loosened restrictions on bars, restaurants, gyms, and other venues and gatherings - which are now in place.

The changes include the following:

• Indoor dining at bars and restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity, with a maximum of 150 people. Parties of no more than six people must remain six feet from other parties; bar seating is open to parties of two (this is not the case in Minneapolis); reservations are required; and establishments must close dine-in service by 10 p.m.
• Gym capacity remains capped at 25 percent but maximum capacity increases to 150 and classes can increase to 25 people, assuming distancing can be observed. Machines and people must maintain 9 feet of distance. Face coverings are required.
• Outdoor events and entertainment continue at 25 percent capacity, but maximum capacity increases to 250 people. Social distancing is required.
• Indoor events and entertainment – like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums – may open at 25 percent, with no more than 150 people in each area of the venue. Face coverings are required, and they may not offer food service after 10 p.m.
• Youth and adult organized sports have resumed practice as of January 4 and games resume January 14 with spectators, following the appropriate capacity limits for indoor or outdoor venues. Inter-region tournaments and out of state play are discouraged.
• Places of worship remain open at 50% capacity but without an overall maximum capacity.

While this is helpful for our local businesses, it remains incredibly important that we continue to social distance, wash our hands, wear a mask, and get tested. 

Stay In Touch

You can stay up to date on our work by subscribing to these legislative updates and “liking” my official Facebook page. For any questions you have on the resources available to our community or our work in the Minnesota House, you can reach me at rep.andrew.carlson@house.mn or leave a voicemail at (651) 296-4218. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Andrew Carlson 

State Representative