Minnesota Legislature to work by ‘alternative means’ during COVID-19 outbreak
The sun shines on the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, Wednesday, May 15, 2019, as Gov. Tim Walz and top legislative leaders continued their budget talks.[AP Photo/Steve Karnowski]
Leaders in the Minnesota Legislature announced in a joint statement Sunday night that the House and Senate would continue to work by "alternative means."
The statement was issued by House Speaker Melissa Hortman, House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt, Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka and Senate Minority Leader Susan Kent.
Disruptions due to COVID-19 outbreak
"We expect to operate efficiently and safely to aid Minnesotans with COVID-19 preparedness and response, and to continue our work to address other pressing needs of the state," the joint statement read.
The statement said the two bodies and committees would meet on an on-call basis from March 16 to April 14, meaning the bodies would meet in advance notice.
The legislative leaders said all meetings would occur in spaces that would allow six feet of distance between people.
The statement said telework will also be available for legislative employees who are able to do so.