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Rep. Persell votes for coronavirus response bill

Monday, March 9, 2020

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives unanimously voted to approve funding for the state’s public health response to COVID-19, commonly referred to as the coronavirus. The first presumed positive case of the condition was identified on Friday in Ramsey County, with the second following Sunday in Carver County.

“Public health officials are working around the clock to prepare for and stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Rep. John Persell (DFL – Bemidji), who voted in support of the bill. “The legislation we passed today ensures that they have the resources needed to respond quickly and effectively.”

The legislation transfers nearly $21 million to Minnesota’s public health response contingency account to address COVID-19 from the state’s general fund. The bill also includes flexibility to ensure the state can effectively address any future strain of the virus. Governor Tim Walz is expected to sign it into law.

The Minnesota Department of Health has comprehensive information on its website, and a public hotline is available at 651-201-3920.