Today we passed a resolution to end Governor Walz's emergency powers, which have been extended longer than any other governor has done in Minnesota history. This has crushed our businesses and people's livelihoods with very little positive effect for patients in long term care. It's time to put the legislature back where it's supposed to be - representing you.

It was great to see so many people gather on the Capitol steps to protest arbitrarily chosen winners and losers during this pandemic. Minnesotans know how to keep themselves safe and healthy, and we will get through this, as we have other public health menaces. The vulnerable elderly should be our top priority for protection. Burdensome regulations on businesses are not the answer that will keep them safe.

Monday, May 11, a bill passed in the Senate to open all businesses in the state. We need the governor and House to support it.

It's time to implement health and safety plans for medium and small-sized businesses so they can open. Large stores selling the same products were never closed. Medium and small businesses are the heart and sole of rural Minnesota!

Houses of worship are absolutely critical in our communities. Not only do they care for the spiritual and mental health of their members, but they frequently run food shelves and other charitable services. We have the means to open them while keeping at-risk people safe and healthy, so we need to take this issue seriously.

So many lives have been impacted by the business shutdown - owners and employees alike. We want to hear your story and know how we can best help you. Please visit https://www.mnsenaterepublicans.com/openmn/ to leave your ideas for eventual re-opening or email me at sen.mark.koran@senate.mn.

The MPCA is trying to force clean car standards (basically, California Emission Standards) on Minnesota without going through the legislature. We all want clean air and clean water, but forcing the market and dictating how many miles you can drive is not the answer.

We desperately need DHS reform. My plan would entail a full life-cycle audit of DHS with eight to nine full-time staff from the Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA). Changes have to start at the very top of our state government. If these changes are enacted quickly, we will see results.

MN Right to Life falsely claims Republicans took a pro-choice vote and don't tell their followers about the Supreme Court decision in Doe v. Gomez. MN Gun Rights claim we aren't pro-2nd Amendment, even though the Senate has blocked every attempt at Red Flag laws and Universal Background Checks. If you want real information about the Dorr brothers and their scam groups, check out https://www.mnscammersexposed.com/.