Gov. Walz signs additional executive orders in response to COVID-19 pandemic

Gov. Tim Walz has signed a number of executive orders to help bolster Minnesota’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With a recent high spike in a number of reports of price gouging, Walz signed an executive order that prohibits the practice. The order goes into effect at 5 p.m. Friday, and those caught in violation of the order can be investigated by the attorney general’s office.

Residents can report price gouging by calling 651-296-3353 or 800-657-3787.

Complete KSTP COVID-19 pandemic coverage

Walz signed another executive order calling on the Department of Human Services commissioner to seek federal authority to waive or modify the requirement for federal programs, including the Minnesota Family Investment Program, Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare.

Executive order 20-12 was also signed by Walz, which allows the DHS to issue waivers or modifications to requirements that allow their services to be delivered to Minnesotans.

Walz announced a 30-day special enrollment period for MNsure starting March 23 and running through April 21. Anyone who is currently uninsured and qualifies for the program is able to sign up.

“Every Minnesotan deserves access to health coverage during this uncertain time,” Walz said in a statement. “This critical action will help ensure Minnesotans can receive the care they need during the COVID-19 crisis. I want to thank MNsure and the health plans for stepping up. Everyone is doing their part.”

Those who want to apply for health insurance can do so on MNsure’s website. Any plans selected by April 21 will have a retroactive start date of April 1.

You can watch the governor’s full press conference from Friday below.