[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed four executive orders to strengthen Minnesota’s response to COVID-19.

Under current state law, receipt of COVID-19 relief payments may make individuals ineligible for certain human services programs. To alleviate economic hardship for Minnesotans, /governor/assets/EO%2020-42%20Final_tcm1055-429796.pdfExecutive Order 20-42 allows Minnesotans to obtain and maintain access to essential services regardless of whether they receive COVID-19 assistance.

/governor/assets/EO%2020-43%20Final_tcm1055-429795.pdfExecutive Order 20-43 allows shareholders for Minnesota companies flexibility related to virtual or telephone annual meetings, helping companies to avoid gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The agricultural industry and community face a significant challenges in getting their animals to market, especially with additional plant closures due to COVID-19. Executive Order 20-44 provides emergency relief from regulations for motor carriers and drivers operating in Minnesota in order to support the food supply chain, extending the provisions outlined in Executive Order 20-24 for transporting livestock, and additional exemptions in order to efficiently transport animal remains.

Executive Order 20-45 provides temporary relief to farmers by exempting motor carriers and drivers operating in Minnesota from certain weight-related regulations in order to efficiently transport wood and wood byproducts for use as composting material.

Executive Orders 20-42 and 20-43 are effective immediately upon approval by the Minnesota Executive Council. Executive Orders 20-44 and 20-45 are effective immediately.