SE Minnesota News

State Sen. John Jasinski doesn't agree with Gov. Tim Walz's latest decisions regarding COVID-19, according to a press release.

“I have no doubt Gov. Walz’s heart was in the right place when he made the decision to close all but non-essential businesses, but with an unheard-of situation like this it is important to reevaluate decisions often," Jasinski said in the press release. "After nearly three weeks, it’s clear this decision should be adjusted."

Jasinski said while he was is glad that more businesses can re-open he doesn't feel like the recent orders are doing enough.

"There are still countless businesses whose livelihoods are in jeopardy for no reason," Jasinski said in the press release. "I have spoken often about the golf industry and their financial viability, but they are far from the only example. If a business can find a way to safely operate, with minimal customer interaction and while maintaining safe social distancing practices, then that business should be able to do so. It’s as simple as that."

Jasinski is worried about the economy and what the coronavirus will continue to do.

"We are not just facing an unprecedented public health crisis; we are also facing an unprecedented economic crisis," Jasinski said in the press release. "In spite of generous government assistance and loan programs, there are numerous businesses that simply will not survive if we continue forcing them to close."

Jasinski said he believes Walz needs to understand the urgency of the situation. He said in the press release that while he doesn't think things should quickly go back to normal, but to be responsible.

"All we are saying is if a business has a responsible plan to operate while protecting the health of their staff and customers, let’s let them," Jasinski said in the press release. "Every day we wait puts more businesses and more workers at risk.”