Governor Walz Extends Peacetime Emergency As Pandemic Continues

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has signed an executive order again extending the state’s peacetime emergency, this time through September 11.

Walz says the decision was made following advice from public health experts and advocates for the elderly, as well as labor and medical providers.

The peacetime emergency gives the governor power to issue executive orders and regulate businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also protects residents against evictions and wage garnishment.

Senate Republicans have been critical of the governor’s emergency powers. At a recent press conference, Walz addressed emergency powers being used in the state and throughout the country.

“I wished we did better nationally in April, June, July…  as far as restrictions, Minnesota is more open than the state of Texas… so just opening early doesn’t guarantee anything. Our plan all along is to find that sustainable path.” said Walz.

Walz had previously extended the emergency order back in July. It was set to expire on Aug. 12. If it expired, state officials say it would jeopardize over $50 million each month in federal funding.

The initial state of emergency was issued by Walz on March 16th. Read the full executive order on MN.gov.

About 62,000 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Minnesota since the state’s first confirmed case in early March. Nearly 1 million Minnesotans have completed tests, according to state health officials.