Gov. Tim Walz on Wednesday extended Minnesota’s stay-at-home order to early May to combat the spread of COVID-19. The order directs Minnesotans to stay-at-home and limit movements to essential needs until May 4. It was originally set to expire on April 10. This means Minnesotans are allowed to leave their homes for crucial items such as groceries, prescriptions, gas, or to go to work if you’re deemed an essential worker.
Workers who are exempt from the order include but are not limited to:
- Healthcare and public health
- Law enforcement, public safety, and first responders
- Child care
- Emergency shelters
- Homeless shelters
- Food and agriculture
- News media
- Energy
- Water and wastewater
- Critical manufacturing
- Public transportation drivers
The governor also announced an extension to the public accommodations order, effectively keeping bars, restaurants and other public accommodations closed until May 4. However, Walz is allowing some businesses to go back to work, including a number of outdoor-based cases such as gold course maintenance and landscaping.
Those found violating the order could be subject to a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.