Legislative Update, April 9, 2020

April 9, 2020

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

On Wednesday, Governor Walz announced he was extending his stay-at-home executive order until May 4. The governor has also extended his order for bar, restaurant, and other public area closure will also continue until May 4.

Under the extended order, Minnesotans can continue leaving their homes for medical attention, getting groceries and take-out food, filling their gas tanks, and taking part in outdoor activities. In other words, what we have been doing for nearly two weeks will now continue until May 4.

There will be some further exemptions with this new extension, including many activities that can be done outside such as landscaping companies will be allowed to operate while remaining socially distant. We will continue to work with the governor to use common sense and allow businesses and activities that can be done safely to be exempted from the various stay-at-home orders.

Remember the best thing we can do to limit the spread of this virus is to stay home, follow the CDC guidelines, and make sure you do not become a vector for this virus. We will get through this together, Minnesotans are doing a great job and we will be poised to bounce back quicker and stronger if we keep being smart and responsible.

Please reach out if there is anything I can do for you.

Workers’ Compensation Bill for Front-Line Workers

On Tuesday, we passed a bill to address workers’ compensation and show our front-line workers that we have their back during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our front-line workers need to know that we have their back as they work to care for the sick and keep our communities safe. This bill is an important step to provide peace of mind and recognize the critical role these workers play in combating the COVID-19 crisis. HF 4537 represents a compromise agreement reached by legislators from all four caucuses, as well as business and labor groups on the Workers Compensation Advisory Council (WCAC). The bill provides presumptive workers compensation insurance to front line workers who contract COVID-19. Thank you to ALL of our front-line workers for the work you are doing to care for the sick and keep our communities safe.

Resources for Diabetics

While it looks like the Minnesota House and Senate have come to an agreement on a new insulin program for Minnesotans, those who rely on insulin should know they do not need to wait for that program. There are a number of programs for those who rely on insulin and may struggle to afford it, including a new one announced just this week by Lilly.

The Lilly Insulin Value Program, allowing anyone with commercial insurance and those without insurance to fill their monthly prescription of Lilly insulin for $35. This program is effective Tuesday, April 7, and it covers most Lilly insulins. While the program was motivated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Lilly has no plans for discontinuing the program in the future. Details and more information can be found in their press release here: https://e.lilly/2wjEr7J.

Lilly and numerous manufacturers and insurance companies have come to the negotiating table over the last year and now provide generous programs for folks struggling to afford insulin. This includes health insurers on the individual market capping the costs of insulin at $25 or less for a month’s supply.

Further, Minnesota’s public health care programs, Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare offer incredibly generous insulin coverage, usually providing the products for free or at a significantly reduced rate.

If you or someone you know struggle to afford or access insulin, please contact your doctor to discuss options available for you.

Resources for Veterans and Farmers

Disaster Relief Grants for Veterans, Surviving Spouses

As part of the COVID-19 relief package, the Minnesota Legislature voted to fund an appropriation specifically dedicated to veterans and surviving spouses who are dealing with the economic effects of the pandemic. The grants are distributed on a first come, first serve basis. Thank you for your service!

To apply online: MinnesotaVeteran.org/COVIDRelief

Special Needs Grants for Veterans, Surviving Spouses

Veterans and surviving spouses who need assistance due to COVID-19 related events may be eligible for funds payable directly to a vendor or creditor for a variety of needs. The grants are distributed on a first come, first serve basis. Thank you for your service!

To apply, contact your local CVSO, visit MACVSO.org

Disaster Recovery Loan Programs for Farmers

The Legislature expanded the use of the Disaster Recovery Loan program to help farmers who have lost revenue due to COVID-19.

Please Stay in Touch

Please continue to stay in touch to share your thoughts or concerns. My phone number is 651-296-9236 or you can email me at email hidden; JavaScript is required.

Stay safe,

Duane

247 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, MN 55155
ph: 651.296.9236