Senator Mark Johnson (R – East Grand Forks) said he was disappointed in Governor Tim Walz’s extension of the Stay at Home order through May 18. Johnson’s response is below –
I couldn’t be more disappointed with the decision to continue the stay-at-home order until May 18 in MN.
In discussions with our area hospitals, they tell me they are ready for Covid patients but have not had any admitted into their facilities. Yet, because they were ordered to curtail their operations, they sit nearly empty and bleeding funds, jeopardizing rural healthcare.
Our small businesses are doing all they can to stay afloat. Luckily many received PPP funds that will take them to June, but it will take them a long time to get back on track even after they are allowed to open.
On top of that, our neighbor to the west, North Dakota, is beginning to open up for business tomorrow, which will draw off some of the pent up spending that NW Minnesotan’s have right now. So when the hair salons and restaurants open, most will have been to ND for their bootleg haircut and night out.
Of the total deaths in MN 99.24% are from long-term care facilities or the victim had significant underlying conditions. Deaths of folks under the age of 50 represent less than 2% of cases.
In conclusion, this is not the right approach for NW Minnesota! We care about those who are at risk and encourage our LTC facilities and the vulnerable to remain vigilant. We do not want to risk these folks who are our parents, sisters, brothers, friends, neighbors, classmates, and loved ones. My humble plea is that we change our approach to dealing with Covid-19 based on the evidence.
