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Legislature working to stay ahead of Coronavirus
As you are most likely aware, the world is reeling from a new disease. As the virus reaches closer to us, the best thing we can do is pull together as a community and protect ourselves by following the recommended precautions, and checking on our families, friends and neighbors.
Another important step is continue to pray for one another. Pray for those across the world who are afflicted, and for the loved ones at risk. As the Book of First John tells us, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.”
Missouri’s first confirmed cases of coronavirus have led legislative leaders from both parties, in both chambers, to consider steps to minimize exposure to the virus among Capitol lawmakers, staff, and visitors.
The Missouri Senate has made the decision to adjourn a week early for their annual legislative break.
The Missouri House will continue to work during the week of March 16-20 in order to fulfill the legislature’s constitutional obligation to pass a state operating budget. However, the House will hold technical sessions on Monday and Tuesday and the full House will return Wednesday and Thursday to pass the budget.
House leaders will continue to monitor the situation and will evaluate daily any additional steps that may be necessary to ensure the safety of those who visit and work in the Capitol. The House will adjourn for its annual spring break as scheduled on Thursday, March 19.
House leaders issued a joint statement saying, “The General Assembly has the constitutional duty of writing and passing a balanced budget to fund the core function of government and the House remains focused on completing this responsibility. The legislative process for passing a budget begins in the House of Representatives and the House plans to move forward next week. The goal of both chambers is to fulfill our constitutional obligations while minimizing risk for members, staff and visitors.”
President Trump has announced new measures to halt the spread of the virus, including travel restrictions. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced Missouri will receive $10 million as its share of COVID-19 funding recently approved by Congress.
Missourians seeking additional information or guidance are encouraged to call a new statewide, tollfree hotline: 877-435-8411. The line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
In addition, House Speaker Elijah Haaahr has created the Special Committee on Disease Prevention and Control. The panel has already heard from three doctors, including the director of the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), about how ready the state is for the coronavirus.
DHSS Director Randall Williams told lawmakers, “I believe we are very well prepared. Our motto is, ‘Hope for the best, prepare for the worst,’ and we think we are prepared for both.”
Williams said the state health lab in Jefferson City now has the capability to test for coronavirus and have a result in six hours. To date, 46 patients in Missouri have been tested for the virus that causes COVID-19. Only one of those has tested positive.
Locally, Butler County Emergency Management is working with its local, state, and federal partners to keep the public safe and prevent panic. Their advice is to wash hands, if you’re sick stay home and don’t touch your face and eyes. Small, commonsense measures can keep you and your family healthy.
Butler County officials are well-prepared for the pandemic as the result of specialized training provided by the state and federal governments.