Gov. Tim Walz To Extend COVID-19 Emergency Powers

SAINT PAUL, MN — Gov. Tim Walz announced Wednesday that he is planning on extending the "COVID-19 peacetime emergency" by 30 days. Walz's office says the extension will ensure the state government can quickly respond to the "evolving threats" from the coronavirus pandemic.

"While Minnesota has taken life-saving action, the threat of COVID-19 remains," Walz said in a news release.

"It’s imperative that we have the tools necessary to respond to this rapidly-evolving virus quickly and decisively in order to safeguard the health and wellbeing of each and every Minnesotan."

Republicans in the state have criticized Walz for extending his emergency powers, accusing him of overreaching.

Last month, Republican Party of Minnesota Chairwoman Jennifer Carnahan stated 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."

Walz's office says Minnesota’s peacetime emergency is consistent with the ongoing national emergency declared by President Donald Trump and the emergencies declared in every state in the U.S.