Press Release: Every Key Indicator Points in the Same Direction: Keep Going

Saint Paul, MN - Today, Governor Walz signed Executive Order 20-32 that ensures healthcare providers can respond quickly and safely during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency as well as Executive Order 20-33 that extends and modifies Minnesota’s Stay at Home Order.

Minnesota State Auditor Julie Blaha reacted, “Our most current data and updated models show Minnesota is on the right path, but we’re not out of the woods yet. Model projections are trending in the right direction, but the curve is not yet bending enough to stop social distancing efforts. Every key indicator points in the same direction: keep going.”

Auditor Blaha went on to describe the process and next steps for addressing the pandemic in Minnesota. “Today’s Executive Orders show an effective interplay between data, on the ground experience, and common sense.

“I applaud the governor for making several course corrections in response to the guidance of experts and those on the front lines of fighting the pandemic. Increasing access to data on nursing home outbreaks, temporarily relaxing health care licensure requirements, and refining the list of exemptions to the Stay at Home Order are all examples of the open mindedness and humility essential to leading in a crisis.

“Because we are making decisions like these based on data, we must continue our push to increase the level of Coronavirus testing in Minnesota. The more we know, the better our decisions about what our next steps will be.”

Auditor Blaha added, “The best way to celebrate our progress is to see it through and continue the stay at home order. Stay safe, stay healthy, and stay on track.”