Wikimedia Commons/Oneras
Wikimedia Commons/Oneras
A state senator takes issue with Gov. Tim Walz’s stay-at-home order.
Sen. Paul Utke said that while he appreciates the governor’s concern for the well-being of Minnesotans, he cannot get behind the order issued in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak.
“The governor’s concern for the health and safety of Minnesotans is well-placed,” Utke said in a statement released by the Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus. “That said, I think the stay-at-home order is premature, and the mandatory closure of ‘non-essential’ business is overreaching. The people of this state will have extensive ground to make up when the crisis is over and the shutdown is lifted.”
Walz ordered people all over the state to stay inside their homes and not leave unless necessary on March 25. His executive order forbids Minnesotans from going outdoors with several exceptions.
Another executive order extended the closure of bars, restaurants and other small businesses until May 1.
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