Reopening Minnesota Schools, Mandating Wearing of Masks

As the state awaits the Governor’s decision on reopening schools this fall, Capitol Report moderator Shannon Loehrke talks with two key lawmakers about the best approach to reopening schools.  Senate Education Committee Chair Carla Nelson, R-Rochester, and DFL education lead Senator Chuck Wiger, DFL-Minneapolis, offer their perspectives  about whether or not school opening decisions should be handled locally or statewide.

At least twenty-five governors have issued orders requiring some level of public face covering.  Senator John Marty proposes that Minnesota adopt a statewide requirement to wear masks in an effort to stifle the spread of COVID-19.  He joins Shannon to discuss his proposal.

Also in the program, representatives of the Minneapolis Police and Peace Officers Association appeared before a Senate oversight committee to comment on the rioting following the death of George Floyd.