With virus on rise, Walz promotes mask distribution

Gov. Tim Walz visited a suburban Minneapolis packaging facility Wednesday to publicize the state’s effort to distribute 4 million masks as confirmed cases of the coronavirus continued to edge slowly upward.

Walz and other state officials visited Liberty Packaging in Brooklyn Park just days after the governor issued a statewide mandate for masks in public spaces to help slow the spread of the virus.

Minnesota has seen an uptick in new daily cases in recent weeks, though not as steep as many other states.

On Wednesday, health officials reported 681 new confirmed cases of the virus, slightly below the 14-day average, and nine new deaths.

"There’s no better way to demonstrate our Minnesotan values than by wearing a mask to slow the spread of COVID-19," said Walz. "We are working to ensure masks are accessible for businesses and Minnesotans throughout the state. I urge everyone to mask up to protect our neighbors, keep our businesses open, and get us on track to return to the activities we love."

"Masking up is a quick, easy way to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep our communities safe," added Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. "As we transition to a new normal, we must center those who have been hit hardest during this pandemic, including people of color, Indigenous people, low-income Minnesotans, and older adults and make masks available and accessible where they are most needed."