COVID-19 Pandemic Brings Emergency Measures to State
April 2020
By Access Press Staff
The COVID-19 pandemic has created uncertainties for Minnesotans with disabilities, particularly with the early adjournment of the Minnesota Legislature until April 14. Governor Tim Walz issued two executive orders on March 20 to provide flexibility for serving vulnerable Minnesotans during the pandemic, receiving praise from disability advocacy organizations.
The orders grant the Department of Human Services (DHS) emergency temporary authority to change administrative and regulatory requirements for various state programs, ensuring access to services for over a million Minnesotans, including those with disabilities. The orders eliminate the need for a special legislative session on these issues.
Over 200 organizations urged policymakers to reconvene and address critical areas impacted by DHS, such as healthcare, economic assistance, housing support, and services for vulnerable populations. With these concerns temporarily addressed, attention has shifted to other areas impacted by the pandemic, focusing on critical bills and bonding in the remaining legislative session.
Some legislators questioned the necessity of all of Governor Walz's orders, but his administration emphasized the importance of protecting public health during uncertain economic times.
COVID-19 pandemic brings emergency measures to state | Access Press