At the Capitol: State Prepares for Transition to Phase Two of Vaccine Rollout as Nearly 70% of Minnesota Seniors Get Vaccinated

Posted on March 10, 2021 by Matt Steele

Governor Walz reported on Tuesday that Minnesota has nearly vaccinated 70% of its seniors, weeks ahead of the original deadline of April. In light of this progress, Walz announced that Minnesota will soon transition to Phase Two of vaccine distribution that prioritizes those that are chronically-ill and that qualify as essential workers. Here is what you need to know about what’s happening at the Capitol:

This Week
On Tuesday, the House had a hearing in the Judiciary Finance and Civil Law committee on H.F. 7/S.F.29 that mandates most Minnesota employers provide their employees earned sick and safe time-off of work. Additionally, H.F 1432, a bill that makes clarifying changes to an existing section of law surrounding reporting of maltreatment towards vulnerable adults, continued to make its way through the legislative process and was heard in the same committee. We hope to see eventual passage of H.F. 1432 to bring further protection to vulnerable seniors. We are also carefully watching H.F. 7/S.F. 29 to make sure that any broad-scale mandate benefits providers as well as employees.

Last Week
Last week on Wednesday, the Senate Aging and Long-Term Care Committee held their weekly hearing on the progress of the vaccine rollout. Chairwoman Karin Housley (R-St. Mary’s Point) kicked off the committee by reading letters from seniors reporting their experience trying to get the vaccine, with many mentioning challenges. Housley stressed again how seniors need to be prioritized when it comes to getting the vaccine and highlighted models in other states like Maine and Arizona. Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm acknowledged the need to prioritize seniors and stated that they have made shifts in their plan to represent that focus.

What to Watch
This morning, the Senate Long-Term Care and Aging Committee’s weekly hearing focused on how best to reopen nursing and assisted living facilities. LeadingAge Minnesota’s President and CEO Gayle Kvenvold testified, and you can view the hearing on the Senate’s YouTube channel.

What’s Ahead
In only a few days, LeadingAge will host its Week at the Capitol! The week begins on March 15 with times to virtually meet with your colleagues, listen to experts from the field and an opportunity to connect with your lawmakers. If you have registered, details, virtual meeting links, and advocacy materials will be sent to you by Friday, March 12! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Matt Steele, Director of Government Affairs.

Each week during the legislative session, follow Advantage for regular updates about what’s happening at the Capitol.