The Latest.  I neglected to include Governor Walz' Executive Order relating to education in my last entry, so here it is:  Executive Order 20-19.  This order extends the distance learning directive until May 1, 2020.  Distance learning officially began today and I am certain many of you are experiencing "first day of school" issues.  These are trying times, but I know that school officials from top-to-bottom are up to meeting the challenges associated with this unprecedented pandemic.

The Legislature was slated to return to work on April 14, but given the Presidents new guidelines on social distancing that stretch to April 30, full resumption of legislative operations on April 14 becomes less likely.  There has been talk of somehow trying to hold committee meetings online, but incorporating comprehensive public input in such a system would be challenging.  In terms of timeline, again it's important to note that the regular legislative session must adjourn on Monday, May 18.