Walz pushes legislators to pass pandemic response measures

State aid for front-line workers and farmers struggling with drought remains on hold at the State Capitol, and now pandemic response measures have also gotten caught up in the political stalemate.

Gov. Tim Walz and legislative leaders failed to break through a monthlong impasse during a meeting Tuesday. The DFL governor followed the discussion with a letter pressing the divided Legislature to address bonus pay for essential workers and drought relief. He also called for lawmakers to grant more flexibility and add requirements Walz said would allow hospitals, nursing homes and schools to better respond to COVID-19.

"While my administration continues to adapt and respond to emerging issues due to the delta variant, the Legislature needs to address a number of issues to keep our students and teachers, families, workers, and communities safe," Walz's letter stated.

https://www.startribune.com/walz-pushes-legislators-to-pass-pandemic-response-measures/600103970/?refresh=true