Walz signs 2 new executive orders, allows PUC to hold remote meetings, extends exemptions for emergency relief vehicles

Friday, Gov. Tim Walz signed Executive Order 20-58, allowing the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to hold remote meetings as necessary, and Executive Order 20-59, extending exemptions for vehicles providing assistance for COVID-19 emergency relief efforts for 30 days.

The Governor’s Office said PUC ensures Minnesotans continue to receive safe, reliable and affordable energy and telecommunications services. The executive order will allow the public to provide input on potential PUC projects remotely, in order to protect public health.

Executive Order 20-59 extends the provisions outlined in Executive Orders 20-06 and 20-37, which exempted vehicles and drivers transporting essential goods from certain regulations, including limits on weight and hours of service. This relief helps ensure the continued free flow of critical relief supplies and other essential goods during the pandemic.