Gov. Tim Walz Bans 'Price Gouging' During Spread Of Coronavirus

TWIN CITIES, MN — Gov. Tim Walz Friday signed three executive orders in the ongoing effort to strengthen Minnesota’s response to the spread of the new coronavirus. The executive orders aim to ban "price gouging" in Minnesota and ensure that critical services continue in the state.

Executive Order 20-10 prohibits price gouging during the peacetime emergency, responding to reports of essential goods necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of the public being sold at excessive and prohibitive prices. This prohibition takes effect on Saturday, March 21, 2020 at 5 p.m.

Individuals found to be in violation are subject to investigation and enforcement by the Attorney General’s office, according to a news release. This executive order brings Minnesota, which does not have a statute on price gouging, in line with most other states.

Minnesotans can report instances of price gouging by calling (651) 296-3353. Callers can ask for a translator at these numbers as well. Complaints can be made online here.

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Executive Order 20-11 authorizes the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to seek federal authority to temporarily waive or modify certain requirements for federal programs, including but not limited to the Minnesota Family Investment Program, Medical Assistance, and MinnesotaCare, to ensure these programs continue providing necessary support.

Executive Order 20-12 allows DHS to temporarily issue waivers or modifications to state requirements to ensure that their services can be delivered to Minnesotans safely and without undue delay, protecting vulnerable Minnesotans and those who care for them.

Also read: Coronavirus: 115 Cases Now In Minnesota Across 21 Counties