Dear Neighbors,
The legislature returned to St. Paul today for what may be one of the most unpredictable special sessions in recent memory. We are in special session to vote on extending the Governor’s emergency powers for another 30 days. Along with this, there are several other topics that may be discussed including, taxes, COVID response, distribution of CARES Act funds, changes to emergency powers, police reform, and bonding.
As of Friday, there is agreement among the four legislative caucuses on CARES Act funding, but little else.
I will be proud to support CARES act funding when it comes before the House for a vote. This is federal funds that we are redirecting to communities and counties to help recover from the economic damage caused by COVID-19 and the forced closures.
I also plan to vote to end the peacetime emergency. To date, I have voted numerous times to end Governor Walz’s executive powers because the time for quick decision-making is over and a return to normal legislative order is needed.
We have now entered the 90th day of the peacetime emergency which, according to the Star Tribune, is the longest peacetime emergency since World War II. The Governor’s approach has devastated our state’s economy and failed to protect vulnerable Minnesotans. It’s time to end his unilateral powers, and work with the legislature to respond to the pandemic and protect those in long-term care and nursing facilities.
Please continue to reach out to me to share your questions, thoughts, or concerns. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4293 or via email at rep.john.poston@house.mn.
Have a great weekend,
John