Sens. Klobuchar, Smith Announce $22M Federal Investment in Minnesota to Support Vaccine Distribution, Cover Cost of Ventilators

WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 -- Sen. Tina Flint Smith, D-Minnesota, issued the following news release:

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded two grants that total more than $22 million to the Minnesota Department of Health. A $15 million grant will support efforts to distribute and administer the COVID-19 vaccine at 10 vaccination centers across Minnesota. A $7,397,990.26 grant will help cover the cost of ventilators and ventilator accessories purchased during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in 2020.

"This federal funding to support vaccine distribution and help cover the cost of ventilators is vital as we work to fight this pandemic and lessen the financial burden on our state budget," said Sen. Klobuchar. "Thanks to scientists, researchers, trial participants, and countless others, there is a light at the end of the tunnel -- and I will continue to push for additional resources to ensure Minnesotans receive the support and care they need during this challenging time."

"The federal government must be a strong partner with Minnesota as we all continue to respond to COVID-19," said Sen. Smith. "The promise of this federal aid is helpful because the pandemic has inevitably put a strain on budgets. Part of that includes the costs of vaccine distribution and treatment equipment like ventilators. Smart investments like this will help ensure economic stability and resiliency for Minnesota. I'll keep working to direct more federal dollars toward our state's priorities."

Read more about the grants here (https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20210203/fema-provides-15-million-minnesota-department-health) and here (https://smithsenate.box.com/s/1t1u63q4l2b04l5r7vax1ksps0k6wxfq).