Gov. Walz Extends Emergency Powers Monday, Defends Decision

TWIN CITIES, MN — Gov. Tim Walz Monday extended the coronavirus peacetime emergency in Minnesota, which gives his office additional regulatory and executive powers. The virus-related emergency declaration has been in effect since March.

"My top priority remains the health and safety of Minnesotans," Walz said in a news release. "As we watch cases rise dramatically in states around us, we must double down in our efforts to protect Minnesota from the spread of COVID-19."

Wisconsin is among the states seeing a spike in COVID cases.

The Minnesota governor's office noted Monday that President Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declarations for all fifty states and the District of Columbia.

"The next stages of this virus will continue to present a challenge, especially to underserved communities," said Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan. "By extending the peacetime emergency, we have quick access to the tools we need to keep Minnesotans safe."

Walz's office said that Minnesota’s peacetime emergency does the following:

— Protects Minnesotans against evictions and wage garnishment

— Provides expedited procurement power for personal protective equipment (PPE) and other equipment

— Allows Minnesota to re-open society strategically, while following the advice of public health experts
Protects workers from unsafe worker conditions

— Requires Minnesotans to wear a face covering in certain settings to prevent the spread of COVID-19

— Provides economic relief and stability to those impacted by the pandemic

Executive Order 20-92 was approved by the Executive Council, which is made up of Walz, Flanagan, Attorney General Kieth Ellison, Secretary of State Steve Simon, and State Auditor Julie Blaha.

Accusations of overreach

Republicans in the state have criticized Walz for extending his emergency powers, accusing him of overreaching. Republican Party of Minnesota Chairwoman Jennifer Carnahan said that "Walz's continued push for unilateral power has passed the point of no return."

"Our government system is one that involves three co-equal branches and the state legislature can and should have a say on the actions to navigate and manage COVID-19 for Minnesota," Carnahan added.

"Sadly, this stopped becoming about an emergency and became about total control four months ago. DFL House members can and should vote to remove Walz's powers, but they are more interested in playing games to manipulate the general election instead of following the foundation and core values of our state and country's constitution."

Coronavirus in Minnesota

• 113,439 total positive cases (cumulative)
• 1,178 newly reported cases Monday
• 3 newly reported deaths Monday
• Total cases hospitalized: 8,421 (cumulative)
• Total cases hospitalized in ICU: 2,311 (cumulative)

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