MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Senate voted Monday to allow most businesses to reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic as long as they follow safety guidelines, highlighting the divide between the chamber's Republican majority and the more cautious approach of Democratic Gov. Tim Walz.
The bill passed 39-28, mostly along party lines, but it has little support in the House Democratic majority. Walz is still deciding to what degree he’ll extend his stay-at-home order before it expires next Monday.
GOP Sen. Andrew Matthews, of Princeton, said the bill would provide a “safe path” for companies, particularly small businesses like salons and mom-and-pop shops, to reopen if they follow federal and state government guidelines.
“As the Legislature has partnered with the governor in so many areas to help make a strong coronavirus response during these last couple of months, this is one key area that we are asking that the governor help also partner with us,” Matthews said.
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https://www.sctimes.com/story/news/local/2020/05/11/minnesota-senate-votes-let-most-closed-businesses-reopen/3112994001/
(St. Cloud Times)
