ST. PAUL (LEARFIELD) – The state’s “Stay at Home” order goes into effect at midnight.

“You can leave your home, pick up groceries, go get food, prescriptions, if your jobs in the critical section, it’s essential – you’re going to work,” said Walz. “If you leave home do social distancing, keep six feet away, don’t touch folks.”

Walz added that people are encouraged to go outside and do activities – “fresh air is a good thing.”

Walz says the order is meant to help slow down the transmission of COVID-19 and buy some time to get hospitals more prepared.