East Twin Cities

Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen wrote a letter to Minnesota residents urging them to listen to health experts during the coronavirus pandemic. 

He said life will eventually return back to normal, but everyone needs to do their part and do what health experts recommend. 

The State House voted in favor of $200 million funding, which will be used against COVID-19. Public Health Response Contingency Account will receive $50 million for ambulances, clinics, hospitals and long term care facilities. Another $150 million will go toward a new Health Car Response Fund, which will pay for COVID-19 costs. 

The bill also has taxpayer protections. Money that isn't spent will go to the general fund, Gruenhagen said in his letter. 

House meetings will take place on an on-call basis until April 14 to address COVID-19 issues and how to respond to residents' needs, he said. 

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) suggests certain guidelines of social distancing, avoiding large groups and telework. MDH is offering assistance to residents through their public phone line 651-201-3920. Additional information can be found on their website, Mayo Clinic's COVID-19 page and the CDC's COVID-19 page. 

He also said to check local schools' websites for information on school closures. 

Gov. Tim Walz has closed all restaurants, bars, clubs and other non-essential businesses temporarily, Gruenhagan said. This is in effect until March 27. If an individual violates this order, it will be a misdemeanor and punished with a $1,000 fine or 90 days in jail. 

Unemployment insurance benefits can also be applied for if an individual has lost their job or had hours reduced a lot. Individuals are eligible for Minnesota's unemployment insurance if a health official ordered them to stay away from others, they have been ordered not to come into work or if they have to care for their child. The one-week waiting period has also been eliminated, which means applicants can access their benefits as soon as possible. 

For more information, visit the Unemployment Insurance Program's website.