Rep. Jeremy Munson doesn't approve of Gov. Tim Walz's mask mandate. | Facebook
Rep. Jeremy Munson doesn't approve of Gov. Tim Walz's mask mandate. | Facebook
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to pummel the country and the world, Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order requiring Minnesotans to wear a mask.
There was at least one state representative, though, that did not support the executive order.
Rep. Jeremy Munson (R-Lake Crystal) said he thought the order was unconstitutional and it destroyed individual liberties.
“No governor has the right to unilaterally impose his will on the people of Minnesota,’’ Munson said in a press release.
The executive order, which requires citizens to wear masks in stores, public buildings and other indoor gathering areas, went into effect July 25.
"Gov. Walz has bypassed our constitutional system and resorted to totalitarian rule. I joined 12 other legislators and more than 40 businesses in a lawsuit to end the governor’s emergency powers. A ruling in that lawsuit is expected any day. Now more than ever, I hope that lawsuit will deliver a clear check on the governor’s authority,’’ Munson said.
Individuals who do not comply with the order may face a fine of up to $100. And there are exceptions to the mask mandate including those with certain medical conditions and children under five.
“The governor’s militant attitude on the subject of masks is very troubling,” Munson said. “As a result, I am concerned that Minnesotans who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons will be publicly shamed.”
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