State to use $40M to expand COVID testing resources

The state of Minnesota is planning on using $40 million to continue expanding COVID-19 testing resources in the state.

Gov. Tim Walz announced the plan Thursday, saying the funding will go directly toward buying new rapid tests and distributing them across the state.

Walz’s office said the state is actively negotiating with testing manufacturers to continue increasing their supply of rapid tests.

The announcement comes a day after Walz announced another $40 million in federal American Rescue Plan funding would go to help support hospitals with staffing.

"Today, we are continuing our efforts to provide free testing to Minnesotans across the state," Walz said in a statement. "No Minnesotan should have to go without a COVID-19 test because they can’t afford it, and we’re tapping every available resource to make sure every Minnesotan gets the public health tools they need to stay safe."

Find a nearby testing location or a vaccine location online.