The commanding general at Fort Riley, Major General John Kolasheski said Wednesday evening that the Post will be more conservative in their COVID-19 reopening than area counties.

Kolasheski said the Army is working with Riley and Geary counties plus others in the region to understand their restrictions and limitations on opening of key facilities and services. "Fort Riley, and I've been consistent with this, is that we will reopen facilities and downgrade our health protection measures at a slower rate than the surrounding community."

Kolasheski said they are America's army. "And our nation requires us to remain ready to deploy, fight and win anywhere and at anytime. As we have gone through the last ten weeks that capability or that requirement has been demonstrated as our sustainment brigade had to put together several teams and deploy them in the continental United States on about a 48-hour string."

Kolasheski addressed the reopening subject during a Town Hall at Fort Riley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590677633674.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe commanding general at Fort Riley, Major General John Kolasheski said Wednesday evening that the Post will be more conservative in their COVID-19 reopening than area counties.Kolasheski said the Army is working with Riley and Geary counties plus others in the region to understand their restrictions and limitations on opening of key facilities and services. "Fort Riley, and I've been consistent with this, is that we will reopen facilities and downgrade our health protection measures at a slower rate than the surrounding community."Kolasheski said they are America's army. "And our nation requires us to remain ready to deploy, fight and win anywhere and at anytime. As we have gone through the last ten weeks that capability or that requirement has been demonstrated as our sustainment brigade had to put together several teams and deploy them in the continental United States on about a 48-hour string."Kolasheski addressed the reopening subject during a Town Hall at Fort Riley.

Fort Riley remaining more conservative in COVID-19 reopening

The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte Co.

By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-05-27/at-least-8-lawsuits-are-now-pending-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-deaths">Kansas News Service</a>

At least eight lawsuits have now been filed against Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation, the Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home <a href="https://wyandotte-county-covid-19-hub-unifiedgov.hub.arcgis.com/" target="_blank">where 132 patients and staff have tested positive for COVID-19</a> and 36 have died.

Attorneys
 representing the nursing home on Tuesday transferred all eight cases to
 federal court in Kansas City, Kansas. They had originally been filed in
 Wyandotte County District Court.

Defendants are allowed to move 
civil actions from state to federal court if there’s a basis for federal
 jurisdiction. In all eight cases, Riverbend’s attorneys invoked the 
federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a law that 
authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services to issue a declaration in response to a public health 
emergency.

Such a declaration provides immunity from liability to 
health care providers who prescribe and administer medications and other
 measures amid public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rachel
 Stahle, an attorney who represents families in four of the eight cases,
 said she will seek to have the cases sent back to state court.

“This happened in Wyandotte County and should be heard in Wyandotte County by Wyandotte County jurors,” she said.

Riverbend’s attorneys did not return calls seeking comment.

The
 eight wrongful-death lawsuits were filed on behalf of patients who died
 at Riverbend. In general, they allege that the nursing home was 
negligent in how it handled the spread of the coronavirus, that it 
lacked adequate staff and that it failed to notify the families of the 
outbreak.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/first-lawsuit-filed-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-death" target="_blank">The first lawsuit was filed on April 28</a>
 by the wife and daughter of Okey Long, an 87-year-old retired barber 
who died on April 17. The other lawsuits were filed in the following 
days by family members of other residents who were said to have died of 
COVID-19.

The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte County.

On April 26, <a href="https://riverbendkansascity.com/covid-19-update/" target="_blank">Riverbend posted a statement on its website</a> offering its condolences to the families and friends of residents who died of COVID-19.

“Given
 the novel nature of the virus and the ability of asymptomatic 
individuals to unknowingly infect others, we believe our team took 
reasonable actions with the resources and information available to us at
 the time,” the statement reads.

“Now, to second guess those on 
the front lines battling a mysterious virus who were doing what they 
could to save lives, just doesn’t feel like a path to justice,” the 
statement says. "If that is the route we choose to take, then skilled 
nursing facilities all across the country will be facing a new crisis 
that threatens the industry’s ability to minister to those in need of 
the care and services it provides.”

As of May 21, at least 7,732 
long-term care facilities in 43 states were reporting 174,381 infections
 and 35,118 deaths, or 42% of all U.S. deaths attributed to COVID-19, <a href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/state-data-and-policy-actions-to-address-coronavirus/" target="_blank">according to the Kaiser Family Foundation</a>.

Riverbend
 is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a publicly traded company 
based in Mission Viejo, California. The company owns about 225 assisted 
living, skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities in 13 states.
 It acquired the Kansas City, Kansas, facility in 2016.

In 2019, The Ensign Group earned more than $110 million on revenues of more than $2 billion. <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1125376/000112537620000076/ensg-20200331.htm" target="_blank">In its most recent quarterly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission</a>,
 the company said it expected to receive nearly $40 million in federal 
funds under the CARES Act, the $2.2 trillion relief package passed by 
Congress to help prop up health care providers and other businesses amid
 the pandemic.

Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590675954803.png" alt="Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a California-based operator of long-term care facilities in 13 states. Julie Denesha / KCUR" />
 <figcaption>Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a California-based operator of long-term care facilities in 13 states. Julie Denesha / KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte Co.</h2>By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-05-27/at-least-8-lawsuits-are-now-pending-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-deaths">Kansas News Service</a>At least eight lawsuits have now been filed against Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation, the Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home <a href="https://wyandotte-county-covid-19-hub-unifiedgov.hub.arcgis.com/" target="_blank">where 132 patients and staff have tested positive for COVID-19</a> and 36 have died.Attorneys
 representing the nursing home on Tuesday transferred all eight cases to
 federal court in Kansas City, Kansas. They had originally been filed in
 Wyandotte County District Court.Defendants are allowed to move 
civil actions from state to federal court if there’s a basis for federal
 jurisdiction. In all eight cases, Riverbend’s attorneys invoked the 
federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a law that 
authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services to issue a declaration in response to a public health 
emergency.Such a declaration provides immunity from liability to 
health care providers who prescribe and administer medications and other
 measures amid public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.Rachel
 Stahle, an attorney who represents families in four of the eight cases,
 said she will seek to have the cases sent back to state court.“This happened in Wyandotte County and should be heard in Wyandotte County by Wyandotte County jurors,” she said.Riverbend’s attorneys did not return calls seeking comment.The
 eight wrongful-death lawsuits were filed on behalf of patients who died
 at Riverbend. In general, they allege that the nursing home was 
negligent in how it handled the spread of the coronavirus, that it 
lacked adequate staff and that it failed to notify the families of the 
outbreak.<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/first-lawsuit-filed-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-death" target="_blank">The first lawsuit was filed on April 28</a>
 by the wife and daughter of Okey Long, an 87-year-old retired barber 
who died on April 17. The other lawsuits were filed in the following 
days by family members of other residents who were said to have died of 
COVID-19.The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte County.On April 26, <a href="https://riverbendkansascity.com/covid-19-update/" target="_blank">Riverbend posted a statement on its website</a> offering its condolences to the families and friends of residents who died of COVID-19.“Given
 the novel nature of the virus and the ability of asymptomatic 
individuals to unknowingly infect others, we believe our team took 
reasonable actions with the resources and information available to us at
 the time,” the statement reads.“Now, to second guess those on 
the front lines battling a mysterious virus who were doing what they 
could to save lives, just doesn’t feel like a path to justice,” the 
statement says. "If that is the route we choose to take, then skilled 
nursing facilities all across the country will be facing a new crisis 
that threatens the industry’s ability to minister to those in need of 
the care and services it provides.”As of May 21, at least 7,732 
long-term care facilities in 43 states were reporting 174,381 infections
 and 35,118 deaths, or 42% of all U.S. deaths attributed to COVID-19, <a href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/state-data-and-policy-actions-to-address-coronavirus/" target="_blank">according to the Kaiser Family Foundation</a>.Riverbend
 is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a publicly traded company 
based in Mission Viejo, California. The company owns about 225 assisted 
living, skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities in 13 states.
 It acquired the Kansas City, Kansas, facility in 2016.In 2019, The Ensign Group earned more than $110 million on revenues of more than $2 billion. <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1125376/000112537620000076/ensg-20200331.htm" target="_blank">In its most recent quarterly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission</a>,
 the company said it expected to receive nearly $40 million in federal 
funds under the CARES Act, the $2.2 trillion relief package passed by 
Congress to help prop up health care providers and other businesses amid
 the pandemic.Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

Lawsuits pile up against rehab facility linked to virus deaths

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. surpassed a jarring milestone Wednesday in the coronavirus pandemic: 100,000 deaths.

That number is the best estimate and most assuredly an undercount. But it represents the stark reality that more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e242bc89a073d6724a7f158e4c9d40d">Americans have died&nbsp;</a>from the virus than from the Vietnam and Korean wars combined.

“It’s a striking reminder of how dangerous this virus can be,” said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy with the Kaiser Family Foundation in Washington.

The once-unthinkable toll appears to be just the beginning of untold misery in the months ahead as Las Vegas casinos and Walt Disney World make plans to reopen, crowds of unmasked Americans swarm beaches and public health officials predict a resurgence by fall.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, issued a stern warning after watching video of Memorial Day crowds gathered at a pool party in Missouri.

“We have a situation in which you see that type of crowding with no mask and people interacting. That’s not prudent, and that’s inviting a situation that could get out of control,” he said during an interview Wednesday on CNN. “Don’t start leapfrogging some of the recommendations in the guidelines because that’s really tempting fate and asking for trouble.”

Worldwide, the virus has infected more than 5.6 million people and killed over 350,000, with the U.S. having the most confirmed cases and deaths by far, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has recorded about 170,000 deaths, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f768f47203908b834e245fbf7f0b3ccc">U.S. reached more than 100,000</a>&nbsp;in less than four months.

The true death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year and was first reported in the U.S. in January, is widely believed to be significantly higher, with experts saying many victims died of COVID-19 without ever being tested for it.

Early on, President Donald Trump downplayed the severity of the coronavirus, likening it to the flu, and predicted the U.S. wouldn’t reach 100,000 deaths.

“I think we’ll be substantially under that number,” Trump said on April 10. Ten days later, he said, “We’re going toward 50- or 60,000 people.” Ten days after that: “We’re probably heading to 60,000, 70,000.”

Critics have said deaths spiked because Trump was slow to respond, but he has contended on Twitter that it could have been 20 times higher without his actions. He has urged states to reopen their economies after months of stay-at-home restrictions.

Las Vegas casinos can welcome tourists again on June 4. SeaWorld and Walt Disney World plan to reopen to limited numbers of tourists in Orlando, Florida, in June and July. And people who have been cooped up indoors began venturing outside in droves, often without practicing social distancing or wearing masks.

Kelly Hove, 79, of Twin Falls, Idaho, an internationally known pianist, died at a nursing home on April 12 of complications from COVID-19 after a long battle with dementia. Her sister-in-law Jan Hove fears that more will die as states start lifting restrictions.

“I think going back too soon is going to cause more deaths, so I’m incredibly concerned,” she said. “And I don’t think we have adequate leadership. ... It’s an absolute joke, from the White House down.”

The virus exacted an especially vicious toll on Trump’s hometown of New York City and its surrounding suburbs, killing more than 21,000. At the peak, hundreds of people were dying per day in New York City, and hospitals, ambulances and first responders were inundated with patients.

There is no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, though several emergency treatments are being used after showing some promise in preliminary testing.

Worldwide, about a dozen vaccine candidates are starting to be tested or getting close to it. Health officials have said studies of a potential vaccine might be done by late this year or early next year.

Only half of Americans said they would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dacdc8bc428dd4df6511bfa259cfec44">willing to get vaccinated</a>&nbsp;if scientists are successful in developing a vaccine, according to a poll released Wednesday from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

Among the 100,000 fatalities was 74-year-old Michael Ganci of Newington, Connecticut, who died March 21. He was a public school teacher, a grandfather and father of four, and a 4th-degree belt Sensei in Kyokushin karate.

Ganci, who had a compromised immune system, died at a hospital in Hartford three days after showing symptoms. His family was not allowed to be with him and tried to text and talk with him on his cellphone during his final days. His wife of 48 years also tested positive for COVID-19 and had to grieve alone.

For their daughter, 45-year-old Joanna Ganci of Beverly, Massachusetts, the milestone is important to understand the scope of the virus.

“But at the same time, I think the danger of counting, the danger of statistics, is that it just minimizes the human element,” she said. “It’s like, what number is going to make an impact for people who haven’t been touched by it?”

It’s not even clear when the coronavirus turned deadly in the United States. Initially, it was believed the first U.S. deaths from the virus were in late February in a Seattle suburb. But by mid-April, it was determined that two people with the coronavirus died in California as many as three weeks earlier.

Comparing countries is tricky, given varying levels of testing and that some coronavirus deaths can be missed. According to figures tracked by Johns Hopkins University, the death rate per 100,000 people is lower in the U.S. than in Italy, France and Spain but higher than in Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand and Australia.

“The experience of other countries shows that death at that scale was preventable,” said Michaud of the Kaiser Family Foundation. “To some extent, the United States suffers from having a slow start and inconsistent approach. We might have seen a different trajectory if different policies were put into place earlier and more forcefully.”

Countries with low death rates suppressed the virus “through lots of testing, contact tracing and policies to support isolation and quarantine of people at risk,” Michaud said.

Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, director of ICAP, a global health center at Columbia University, called the U.S. death rate shocking.

“It reflects the fact that we have neglected basic fundamentals for health,” El-Sadr said. “So, now we are in this shameful situation. It is the most vulnerable people in our midst — the elderly, the poor, members of racial/ethnic minority groups — who are the ones disproportionately getting sick and dying.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590661594503.png" alt="The U.S. is also approaching 1.7 million cases of the coronavirus-Image courtesy John Hopkins University" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. is also approaching 1.7 million cases of the coronavirus-Image courtesy John Hopkins University</figcaption>
 </figure>HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. surpassed a jarring milestone Wednesday in the coronavirus pandemic: 100,000 deaths.That number is the best estimate and most assuredly an undercount. But it represents the stark reality that more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e242bc89a073d6724a7f158e4c9d40d">Americans have died&nbsp;</a>from the virus than from the Vietnam and Korean wars combined.“It’s a striking reminder of how dangerous this virus can be,” said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy with the Kaiser Family Foundation in Washington.The once-unthinkable toll appears to be just the beginning of untold misery in the months ahead as Las Vegas casinos and Walt Disney World make plans to reopen, crowds of unmasked Americans swarm beaches and public health officials predict a resurgence by fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586814827197.png" alt="Dr. Anthony Fauci during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Anthony Fauci during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, issued a stern warning after watching video of Memorial Day crowds gathered at a pool party in Missouri.“We have a situation in which you see that type of crowding with no mask and people interacting. That’s not prudent, and that’s inviting a situation that could get out of control,” he said during an interview Wednesday on CNN. “Don’t start leapfrogging some of the recommendations in the guidelines because that’s really tempting fate and asking for trouble.”Worldwide, the virus has infected more than 5.6 million people and killed over 350,000, with the U.S. having the most confirmed cases and deaths by far, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has recorded about 170,000 deaths, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f768f47203908b834e245fbf7f0b3ccc">U.S. reached more than 100,000</a>&nbsp;in less than four months.The true death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year and was first reported in the U.S. in January, is widely believed to be significantly higher, with experts saying many victims died of COVID-19 without ever being tested for it.Early on, President Donald Trump downplayed the severity of the coronavirus, likening it to the flu, and predicted the U.S. wouldn’t reach 100,000 deaths.“I think we’ll be substantially under that number,” Trump said on April 10. Ten days later, he said, “We’re going toward 50- or 60,000 people.” Ten days after that: “We’re probably heading to 60,000, 70,000.”Critics have said deaths spiked because Trump was slow to respond, but he has contended on Twitter that it could have been 20 times higher without his actions. He has urged states to reopen their economies after months of stay-at-home restrictions.Las Vegas casinos can welcome tourists again on June 4. SeaWorld and Walt Disney World plan to reopen to limited numbers of tourists in Orlando, Florida, in June and July. And people who have been cooped up indoors began venturing outside in droves, often without practicing social distancing or wearing masks.Kelly Hove, 79, of Twin Falls, Idaho, an internationally known pianist, died at a nursing home on April 12 of complications from COVID-19 after a long battle with dementia. Her sister-in-law Jan Hove fears that more will die as states start lifting restrictions.“I think going back too soon is going to cause more deaths, so I’m incredibly concerned,” she said. “And I don’t think we have adequate leadership. ... It’s an absolute joke, from the White House down.”The virus exacted an especially vicious toll on Trump’s hometown of New York City and its surrounding suburbs, killing more than 21,000. At the peak, hundreds of people were dying per day in New York City, and hospitals, ambulances and first responders were inundated with patients.There is no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, though several emergency treatments are being used after showing some promise in preliminary testing.Worldwide, about a dozen vaccine candidates are starting to be tested or getting close to it. Health officials have said studies of a potential vaccine might be done by late this year or early next year.Only half of Americans said they would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dacdc8bc428dd4df6511bfa259cfec44">willing to get vaccinated</a>&nbsp;if scientists are successful in developing a vaccine, according to a poll released Wednesday from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.Among the 100,000 fatalities was 74-year-old Michael Ganci of Newington, Connecticut, who died March 21. He was a public school teacher, a grandfather and father of four, and a 4th-degree belt Sensei in Kyokushin karate.Ganci, who had a compromised immune system, died at a hospital in Hartford three days after showing symptoms. His family was not allowed to be with him and tried to text and talk with him on his cellphone during his final days. His wife of 48 years also tested positive for COVID-19 and had to grieve alone.For their daughter, 45-year-old Joanna Ganci of Beverly, Massachusetts, the milestone is important to understand the scope of the virus.“But at the same time, I think the danger of counting, the danger of statistics, is that it just minimizes the human element,” she said. “It’s like, what number is going to make an impact for people who haven’t been touched by it?”It’s not even clear when the coronavirus turned deadly in the United States. Initially, it was believed the first U.S. deaths from the virus were in late February in a Seattle suburb. But by mid-April, it was determined that two people with the coronavirus died in California as many as three weeks earlier.Comparing countries is tricky, given varying levels of testing and that some coronavirus deaths can be missed. According to figures tracked by Johns Hopkins University, the death rate per 100,000 people is lower in the U.S. than in Italy, France and Spain but higher than in Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand and Australia.“The experience of other countries shows that death at that scale was preventable,” said Michaud of the Kaiser Family Foundation. “To some extent, the United States suffers from having a slow start and inconsistent approach. We might have seen a different trajectory if different policies were put into place earlier and more forcefully.”Countries with low death rates suppressed the virus “through lots of testing, contact tracing and policies to support isolation and quarantine of people at risk,” Michaud said.Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, director of ICAP, a global health center at Columbia University, called the U.S. death rate shocking.“It reflects the fact that we have neglected basic fundamentals for health,” El-Sadr said. “So, now we are in this shameful situation. It is the most vulnerable people in our midst — the elderly, the poor, members of racial/ethnic minority groups — who are the ones disproportionately getting sick and dying.”

US death toll from coronavirus surges past 100,000 people

Geary County Emergency Operations Center committee members have made their decisions on the County's COVID-19 reopening guidelines and requirements. Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said they essentially adopted a plan similar to one put in place for Riley County, but with a few changes. "Requiring people to still continue the social distancing, washing your hands, using sanitizer when necessary, cleaning high touch surfaces and not shaking hands."

Mass gatherings will be limited to 50 people and all businesses can be open with no hourly restrictions. 

Berges noted that there is something for Geary County dealing with special events. Anytime someone has a special event such as a parade or function in a park with more than 100 people at one time and occurs less than 12 times per year they must contact the Health Department at least seven days in advance and fill out a special event notification form. "That let's us know who is going to be doing the event, what it will be, what will happen at the event." Also required will be mitigation information. "How they're going to ensure people keep the distance apart from each other. And this is in case to make sure everybody is being safe as we move forward because the threat of the COVID virus here in Geary County has not gone away. It's still present, it's still possible to have more people infected with it."

Berges said anyone found not to be in compliance with the order can be issued citations or places can be shut down if they are not following the order.

The order will be in effect for 14 days. Berges said if they want to do so, all businesses can open, and playground equipment will now be open for use. Prior to the end of that period the EOC staff will meet to determine if they can continue the order or impose further restrictions.

Geary County Emergency Operations Center committee members have made their decisions on the County's COVID-19 reopening guidelines and requirements. Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said they essentially adopted a plan similar to one put in place for Riley County, but with a few changes. "Requiring people to still continue the social distancing, washing your hands, using sanitizer when necessary, cleaning high touch surfaces and not shaking hands."Mass gatherings will be limited to 50 people and all businesses can be open with no hourly restrictions. Berges noted that there is something for Geary County dealing with special events. Anytime someone has a special event such as a parade or function in a park with more than 100 people at one time and occurs less than 12 times per year they must contact the Health Department at least seven days in advance and fill out a special event notification form. "That let's us know who is going to be doing the event, what it will be, what will happen at the event." Also required will be mitigation information. "How they're going to ensure people keep the distance apart from each other. And this is in case to make sure everybody is being safe as we move forward because the threat of the COVID virus here in Geary County has not gone away. It's still present, it's still possible to have more people infected with it."Berges said anyone found not to be in compliance with the order can be issued citations or places can be shut down if they are not following the order.The order will be in effect for 14 days. Berges said if they want to do so, all businesses can open, and playground equipment will now be open for use. Prior to the end of that period the EOC staff will meet to determine if they can continue the order or impose further restrictions.

Geary County EOC unveils COVID-19 reopening requirements

Three U.S. Army Medical Evacuation Blackhawk helicopters flew over Geary Community Hospital and Junction City as part of a flight over the region Wednesday morning to thank healthcare workers for their continued support of Irwin Army Community Hospital and the Fort Riley community.

Flights over Stormont Vail Hospital and the St. Francis campus in Topeka, Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan and over Irwin Army Community Hospital were also scheduled as part of the activity. ( Photos of Blackhawks over Geary Community Hospital courtesy of Craig Bender, Military Affairs Council ).

Three U.S. Army Medical Evacuation Blackhawk helicopters flew over Geary Community Hospital and Junction City as part of a flight over the region Wednesday morning to thank healthcare workers for their continued support of Irwin Army Community Hospital and the Fort Riley community.Flights over Stormont Vail Hospital and the St. Francis campus in Topeka, Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan and over Irwin Army Community Hospital were also scheduled as part of the activity. ( Photos of Blackhawks over Geary Community Hospital courtesy of Craig Bender, Military Affairs Council ).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590600714831.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590600741183.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590600756751.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division salute regional healthcare workers with flyover

As part of a series of announcements on Tuesday, Governor Kelly vetoed a House bill recently approved by the legislature, issued a new emergency disaster declaration designed to protect Kansans from the current economic threat posed by COVID-19 and the possible threat of surges of the virus.&nbsp;

Kelly removed the statewide order that put Kansas into Phase Two of the reopening plan. "Instead the Ad Astra plan is now being offered as guidance for counties to follow. The power to administer and regulate the plan will be up to each county. If a county wants to remain in Phase Two with Phase Two restrictions it will need to issue its' own emergency order to that effect."

In Geary County the EOC board will meet Wednesday morning to review the announcements by the Governor and decide where the County proceeds on any further COVID-19 restrictions or guidance.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostAs part of a series of announcements on Tuesday, Governor Kelly vetoed a House bill recently approved by the legislature, issued a new emergency disaster declaration designed to protect Kansans from the current economic threat posed by COVID-19 and the possible threat of surges of the virus.&nbsp;Kelly removed the statewide order that put Kansas into Phase Two of the reopening plan. "Instead the Ad Astra plan is now being offered as guidance for counties to follow. The power to administer and regulate the plan will be up to each county. If a county wants to remain in Phase Two with Phase Two restrictions it will need to issue its' own emergency order to that effect."In Geary County the EOC board will meet Wednesday morning to review the announcements by the Governor and decide where the County proceeds on any further COVID-19 restrictions or guidance.

Kelly leaves COVID-19 reopening guidelines up to counties

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending voluntary 14-day self-quarantine for those Kansans who traveled to Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, over the Memorial Day weekend and did not use protective measures, such as social distancing and face masks.&nbsp;

Over the holiday weekend, large crowds were reported at the Lake of the Ozarks with no protective practices being followed.

“The reckless behavior displayed during this weekend risks setting our community back substantially for the progress we’ve already made in slowing the spread of COVID-19,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “If you traveled to Lake of the Ozarks over the weekend, we urge you to act responsibly and self-quarantine to protect your neighbors, co-workers and family.”

While Lake of the Ozarks is not currently on the mandated travel list, KDHE urges those who traveled over the Memorial Day weekend to self-quarantine for 14 days upon return to Kansas.

The areas on the mandated travel advisory include

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — The coronavirus pandemic didn't stop people from packing the central Missouri vacation hot spot of the Lake of the Ozarks for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, despite state social distancing orders.

Crowds flooded some bars and restaurants at the Lake of the Ozarks, which attracts Missouri residents, as well as people in surrounding states, including Illinois, Kansas, Arkansas and Iowa.

One video&nbsp;posted on social media shows a crammed pool where people lounged close together without masks.

Camden County Sheriff’s Department Capt. Chris Twitchell on Sunday said the typically crowded resort region has been even busier than normal this year. He said people with second houses on the lake moved in a few months ago to quarantine there, plus Memorial Day vacationers too worried to travel by airplane flocked to the mid-Missouri region instead.

“Our normal holiday weekend without all this COVID is ridiculously crazy,” Twitchell said. “So add COVID to it and all the people influxing down here to get away from everywhere else, (and) it just adds more to it. It’s a perfect storm.”

Missouri’s statewide stay-at-home order expired earlier this month, but an order from the state health director requires 6-foot social distancing until at least the end of May.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/novel-coronavirus/pdf/economic-reopening.pdf">order</a>&nbsp;leaves it up to local and state health officials to enforce social distancing.

It’s unclear what steps Lake of the Ozarks-area health officials are taking to enforce that order. Associated Press requests for comment left with local health departments were not immediately returned Sunday.

Twitchell said the Camden County Sheriff's Department is struggling to keep up with an increase of reported crime because of the surge of people. He said there's no way the department has enough deputies to enforce social distancing on top of that.

“We’ve had such an influx of people down here at the lake, we’re just overwhelmed,” he said.

Since the pandemic first hit Missouri, the state health department has reported 38 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Camden County and four in Miller County, which cover some of the Lake of the Ozarks area.

In total, the health department reported that the virus has sickened at least 11,988 people, up 236 cases compared to what was reported Saturday. The confirmed death toll is 681, up from 676 reported deaths Saturday.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590412088066.png" alt="Snapchat video of the crowds at Lake of the Ozarks" />
 <figcaption>Snapchat video of the crowds at Lake of the Ozarks</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending voluntary 14-day self-quarantine for those Kansans who traveled to Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, over the Memorial Day weekend and did not use protective measures, such as social distancing and face masks.&nbsp;Over the holiday weekend, large crowds were reported at the Lake of the Ozarks with no protective practices being followed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590504469923.png" alt="Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary</figcaption>
 </figure>“The reckless behavior displayed during this weekend risks setting our community back substantially for the progress we’ve already made in slowing the spread of COVID-19,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “If you traveled to Lake of the Ozarks over the weekend, we urge you to act responsibly and self-quarantine to protect your neighbors, co-workers and family.”While Lake of the Ozarks is not currently on the mandated travel list, KDHE urges those who traveled over the Memorial Day weekend to self-quarantine for 14 days upon return to Kansas.The areas on the mandated travel advisory include<ol>
 <li>Connecticut</li><li>Illinois</li><li>Maryland</li><li>Massachusetts</li><li>Rhode Island</li><li>New Jersey</li><li>New York</li><li>Been on a cruise ship or river cruise</li><li>Traveled internationally</li>
 </ol>-------COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — The coronavirus pandemic didn't stop people from packing the central Missouri vacation hot spot of the Lake of the Ozarks for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, despite state social distancing orders.Crowds flooded some bars and restaurants at the Lake of the Ozarks, which attracts Missouri residents, as well as people in surrounding states, including Illinois, Kansas, Arkansas and Iowa.One video&nbsp;posted on social media shows a crammed pool where people lounged close together without masks.Camden County Sheriff’s Department Capt. Chris Twitchell on Sunday said the typically crowded resort region has been even busier than normal this year. He said people with second houses on the lake moved in a few months ago to quarantine there, plus Memorial Day vacationers too worried to travel by airplane flocked to the mid-Missouri region instead.“Our normal holiday weekend without all this COVID is ridiculously crazy,” Twitchell said. “So add COVID to it and all the people influxing down here to get away from everywhere else, (and) it just adds more to it. It’s a perfect storm.”Missouri’s statewide stay-at-home order expired earlier this month, but an order from the state health director requires 6-foot social distancing until at least the end of May.The&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/novel-coronavirus/pdf/economic-reopening.pdf">order</a>&nbsp;leaves it up to local and state health officials to enforce social distancing.It’s unclear what steps Lake of the Ozarks-area health officials are taking to enforce that order. Associated Press requests for comment left with local health departments were not immediately returned Sunday.Twitchell said the Camden County Sheriff's Department is struggling to keep up with an increase of reported crime because of the surge of people. He said there's no way the department has enough deputies to enforce social distancing on top of that.“We’ve had such an influx of people down here at the lake, we’re just overwhelmed,” he said.Since the pandemic first hit Missouri, the state health department has reported 38 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Camden County and four in Miller County, which cover some of the Lake of the Ozarks area.In total, the health department reported that the virus has sickened at least 11,988 people, up 236 cases compared to what was reported Saturday. The confirmed death toll is 681, up from 676 reported deaths Saturday.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.

KDHE urges self-quarantine if you traveled to Lake of the Ozarks

The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will conduct the annual Memorial Day observance on Monday. The Army noted that due to COVID-19 guidelines the ceremony will not be open to the public, but will be shared live on www.facebook.com/FortRiley, beginning at 11:50 a.m.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran will join Major General John Kolasheski, Commanding General John Kolasheski, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley , Command Sergeant. Major Raymond Harris, 1st Infantry Division Command Sergeant. Major, Col. Stephen Shrader, Fort Riley Garrison Commander and Command Sergeant Major Timothy Speichert, Garrison Command Sergeant Major, for the observance.

Following brief remarks, Col. Shrader and Sgt. Maj. Speichert will place a wreath in honor of those who have died while serving the nation's armed forces.

The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will conduct the annual Memorial Day observance on Monday. The Army noted that due to COVID-19 guidelines the ceremony will not be open to the public, but will be shared live on www.facebook.com/FortRiley, beginning at 11:50 a.m.U.S. Senator Jerry Moran will join Major General John Kolasheski, Commanding General John Kolasheski, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley , Command Sergeant. Major Raymond Harris, 1st Infantry Division Command Sergeant. Major, Col. Stephen Shrader, Fort Riley Garrison Commander and Command Sergeant Major Timothy Speichert, Garrison Command Sergeant Major, for the observance.Following brief remarks, Col. Shrader and Sgt. Maj. Speichert will place a wreath in honor of those who have died while serving the nation's armed forces.

Fort Riley will conduct a virtual Memorial Day observance

COVID-19 changed a lot of normal practices this year, including commencement at Junction City High School. Approximately 300 members of the Class of 2020 were honored during a virtual ceremony shown Saturday afternoon on the USD 475 You Tube channel.

Melissa Sharp, JCHS Principal, told the seniors their diploma is the passport to the next chapter in their lives. "And it is yours. Take it and fly away Blue Jay." Sharp noted that the graduating class included approximately 300 students with senior spotlights indicating college readiness, technical certifications and continuing education, future military service and work place readiness skills."

Sharp emphasized that the Class of 2020 are just good people. "They regularly demonstrate great character, brighten another person's day, serve as a role model for underclassmen and tug at the heart strings of the Junction City High School staff." The JCHS Principal challenged the graduates to focus on three priorities including their health, people in their lives and their job or school in that order. "If you didn't have this focus prior to March I hope the last two months have taught you how important it is not to take these things for granted, in fact, not to take anything for granted."

Allen McFarland, JCHS history and government teacher, and soccer and basketball coach, spoke to the graduates telling them to find their Why. "When finding my Why I chose education because at the end of the day I like working with people, I like working with kids." McFarland added, Don't settle for a job for your career. Find a Why and make that your career."

Albert Caba De Moto, was one of the class speakers during the virtual commencement. "As we go through this pandemic we are given the choice to say I can or I can't. It is up to us to stand together and say we can. We will not be beat by this pandemic, we will not give up. We can be a positive influence in this difficult time. We can reach our goals, we can overcome adversity and we will overcome."

Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent of Schools, noted no one could have forseen the COVID-19 pandemic. "Never in a million years could anyone have predicted the last five weeks we have experienced. The silver lining in this for me is a greater appreciation for the life I have and opportunities that are before me. There is no such thing as a dress rehearsal in life. We only have one life to live, and we should embrace it and take advantage of every opportunity we have." Eggleston said the pandemic had taught him that we should not postpone the important things in life.

During the Virtual Ceremony a photo of each class member and their name was shown, and there were numerous other prerecorded remarks from JCHS students, alumni, school board, Senator Jerry Moran and military leaders with current or former ties to Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division.

The Class of 2020 is the 145th graduating class in the history of Junction City High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590267423905.jpeg" alt="JCHS Senior Class leaders shown during the online Virtual Commencement Ceremony" />
 <figcaption>JCHS Senior Class leaders shown during the online Virtual Commencement Ceremony</figcaption>
 </figure>COVID-19 changed a lot of normal practices this year, including commencement at Junction City High School. Approximately 300 members of the Class of 2020 were honored during a virtual ceremony shown Saturday afternoon on the USD 475 You Tube channel.Melissa Sharp, JCHS Principal, told the seniors their diploma is the passport to the next chapter in their lives. "And it is yours. Take it and fly away Blue Jay." Sharp noted that the graduating class included approximately 300 students with senior spotlights indicating college readiness, technical certifications and continuing education, future military service and work place readiness skills."Sharp emphasized that the Class of 2020 are just good people. "They regularly demonstrate great character, brighten another person's day, serve as a role model for underclassmen and tug at the heart strings of the Junction City High School staff." The JCHS Principal challenged the graduates to focus on three priorities including their health, people in their lives and their job or school in that order. "If you didn't have this focus prior to March I hope the last two months have taught you how important it is not to take these things for granted, in fact, not to take anything for granted."Allen McFarland, JCHS history and government teacher, and soccer and basketball coach, spoke to the graduates telling them to find their Why. "When finding my Why I chose education because at the end of the day I like working with people, I like working with kids." McFarland added, Don't settle for a job for your career. Find a Why and make that your career."Albert Caba De Moto, was one of the class speakers during the virtual commencement. "As we go through this pandemic we are given the choice to say I can or I can't. It is up to us to stand together and say we can. We will not be beat by this pandemic, we will not give up. We can be a positive influence in this difficult time. We can reach our goals, we can overcome adversity and we will overcome."Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent of Schools, noted no one could have forseen the COVID-19 pandemic. "Never in a million years could anyone have predicted the last five weeks we have experienced. The silver lining in this for me is a greater appreciation for the life I have and opportunities that are before me. There is no such thing as a dress rehearsal in life. We only have one life to live, and we should embrace it and take advantage of every opportunity we have." Eggleston said the pandemic had taught him that we should not postpone the important things in life.During the Virtual Ceremony a photo of each class member and their name was shown, and there were numerous other prerecorded remarks from JCHS students, alumni, school board, Senator Jerry Moran and military leaders with current or former ties to Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division.The Class of 2020 is the 145th graduating class in the history of Junction City High School.

JCHS Class of 2020 graduates with a Virtual Commencement Ceremony

TOPEKA —The Department for Children and Families in collaboration with the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) announced this week the creation of the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Program (P-EBT). The program will help families who have been impacted by school closures due to COVID-19 to purchase food for their children.

“We know the pandemic has made it difficult for families to access food, especially if they relied on school meals,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Thanks to the partnership between DCF and KSDE the state will be able to automatically enroll most families into the P-EBT program, so they receive their benefit as quickly as possible.”

“Food insecurity should be the last thing our Kansas children should have to face right now,” Cheryl Johnson KSDE director of child nutrition and wellness said. “P-EBT provides temporary funding to address emergency food needs and avert financial hardship for families affected by the pandemic. I am thankful that through this partnership, Kansas is able to put healthy food on the table for Kansas children.”

P-EBT provides a one-time benefit of up to $291 on a Kansas Benefits Card to Kansas families whose children between the age of 5 to 18 would receive free or reduced-price meals at participating schools. There is no application process to receive the P-EBT benefit.

DCF will issue the benefit in phases. Those Kansas families who currently receive free or reduced-price meals and are enrolled in the food assistance or TANF programs should begin to receive their benefit later this week.

The second phase also will include an automatic match with those families on free or reduced-price meals and who also are receiving Medicaid or child care assistance.

The final phase will include families that need to provide additional information to receive the benefit. Those families will receive access to a parent portal to register for the program beginning June 5. Parents should receive information from their school district on how to access the parent portal.

“Most families should expect to see their benefit in the next two weeks,” DCF Secretary Laura Howard said. “If families have not yet received information about P-EBT, I encourage them to reach out to their local school district.”

In order to provide additional information about P-EBT and to answer questions, DCF is hosting a virtual town hall meeting tomorrow from 11 a.m. to noon.

Use this link to join:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall</a>

TOPEKA —The Department for Children and Families in collaboration with the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) announced this week the creation of the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Program (P-EBT). The program will help families who have been impacted by school closures due to COVID-19 to purchase food for their children.“We know the pandemic has made it difficult for families to access food, especially if they relied on school meals,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Thanks to the partnership between DCF and KSDE the state will be able to automatically enroll most families into the P-EBT program, so they receive their benefit as quickly as possible.”“Food insecurity should be the last thing our Kansas children should have to face right now,” Cheryl Johnson KSDE director of child nutrition and wellness said. “P-EBT provides temporary funding to address emergency food needs and avert financial hardship for families affected by the pandemic. I am thankful that through this partnership, Kansas is able to put healthy food on the table for Kansas children.”P-EBT provides a one-time benefit of up to $291 on a Kansas Benefits Card to Kansas families whose children between the age of 5 to 18 would receive free or reduced-price meals at participating schools. There is no application process to receive the P-EBT benefit.DCF will issue the benefit in phases. Those Kansas families who currently receive free or reduced-price meals and are enrolled in the food assistance or TANF programs should begin to receive their benefit later this week.The second phase also will include an automatic match with those families on free or reduced-price meals and who also are receiving Medicaid or child care assistance.The final phase will include families that need to provide additional information to receive the benefit. Those families will receive access to a parent portal to register for the program beginning June 5. Parents should receive information from their school district on how to access the parent portal.“Most families should expect to see their benefit in the next two weeks,” DCF Secretary Laura Howard said. “If families have not yet received information about P-EBT, I encourage them to reach out to their local school district.”In order to provide additional information about P-EBT and to answer questions, DCF is hosting a virtual town hall meeting tomorrow from 11 a.m. to noon.Virtual P-EBT Town HallThursday, May 21 from 11 a.m. to noon.Use this link to join:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall</a>

Kan. families receive additional food support through Pandemic EBT program

There was no change Friday in the total number of positive COVID-19 cases in Geary County. According to the Health Department the total remained at 16 since the pandemic began, with two of those cases active.

There are 83 tests pending, and 474 people have tested negative.

There was no change Friday in the total number of positive COVID-19 cases in Geary County. According to the Health Department the total remained at 16 since the pandemic began, with two of those cases active.There are 83 tests pending, and 474 people have tested negative.

Geary County positive COVID-19 case numbers hold steady

HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — Reno County District Attorney Keith Schroeder said Thursday he will not file criminal charges against people who violate executive orders issued by the governor related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Schroeder attributed his decision to guidance from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, The Wichita Eagle&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article242903531.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.

A legal opinion issued Wednesday by the state attorney general calls the legality of the disaster declaration granting her broad emergency powers “doubtful,” suggesting the governor cannot issue “rolling proclamations” of emergency for the same event.

Schroeder, who was among several officials who had asked the attorney general for his opinion on the matter, said in a news release that he will not prosecute any cases based on executive orders issued after May 1.

Gov. Laura Kelly has apparently failed to comply with a legal requirement for distributing proclamations, meaning all of her executive orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic “cannot be legally enforced in a criminal courtroom,” Schroeder said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576177238643.jpeg" alt="Reno Co. D.A. Keith Schroeder" />
 <figcaption>Reno Co. D.A. Keith Schroeder</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — Reno County District Attorney Keith Schroeder said Thursday he will not file criminal charges against people who violate executive orders issued by the governor related to the coronavirus pandemic.Schroeder attributed his decision to guidance from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, The Wichita Eagle&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article242903531.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.A legal opinion issued Wednesday by the state attorney general calls the legality of the disaster declaration granting her broad emergency powers “doubtful,” suggesting the governor cannot issue “rolling proclamations” of emergency for the same event.Schroeder, who was among several officials who had asked the attorney general for his opinion on the matter, said in a news release that he will not prosecute any cases based on executive orders issued after May 1.Gov. Laura Kelly has apparently failed to comply with a legal requirement for distributing proclamations, meaning all of her executive orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic “cannot be legally enforced in a criminal courtroom,” Schroeder said.

Kansas prosecutor: No criminal charges over pandemic orders

There have now been 16 positive cases of COVID-19 in Geary County. According to Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges the Health Department was notified late Wednesday night about a new case.

The latest patient is a 24-year old woman. She is isolated at home.

Berges said the last two positive cases were travel related. Those two cases are the only two active cases in Geary County.

There have now been 16 positive cases of COVID-19 in Geary County. According to Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges the Health Department was notified late Wednesday night about a new case.The latest patient is a 24-year old woman. She is isolated at home.Berges said the last two positive cases were travel related. Those two cases are the only two active cases in Geary County.

Geary County has a new positive COVID-19 case

TOPEKA – An order issued by the Kansas Corporation Commission Thursday morning requires utilities under its jurisdiction to offer 12-month payment plans and waive late fees through the end of the year to help residential and small business customers avoid disconnection, according to a media release from the commission.

The Commission’s earlier order suspending disconnections is set to expire on May 31. Today’s order will help customers, struggling with the economic effects of COVID-19, pay off past due balances gradually while avoiding disconnection of service. Customers are also encouraged to apply for available utility assistance programs. Information is posted on <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/utility-assistance-programs">the KCC website&nbsp;</a>

KCC staff filed a report with the Commission on May 6 recommending baseline customer protections prior to the end of the disconnect suspension order. Utilities had the opportunity to respond to the recommendations prior to today’s order. Several utilities have advised they plan to offer protections in excess of the minimums required.

The order states utilities may defer any extraordinary bad debt expense and lost fee revenue that arises from the required customer protections into a regulatory asset for accounting purposes only. Any recovery requests will be considered in a utility’s next rate case or rate recovery filing.

The Commission may extend the consumer protections outlined in Thursday order if the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into 2021.&nbsp; Click here to<a href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/20200521111445.pdf?Id=932794de-f0cc-4397-b1bf-948512be107e"> view the order</a>

TOPEKA – An order issued by the Kansas Corporation Commission Thursday morning requires utilities under its jurisdiction to offer 12-month payment plans and waive late fees through the end of the year to help residential and small business customers avoid disconnection, according to a media release from the commission.The Commission’s earlier order suspending disconnections is set to expire on May 31. Today’s order will help customers, struggling with the economic effects of COVID-19, pay off past due balances gradually while avoiding disconnection of service. Customers are also encouraged to apply for available utility assistance programs. Information is posted on <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/utility-assistance-programs">the KCC website&nbsp;</a>KCC staff filed a report with the Commission on May 6 recommending baseline customer protections prior to the end of the disconnect suspension order. Utilities had the opportunity to respond to the recommendations prior to today’s order. Several utilities have advised they plan to offer protections in excess of the minimums required.The order states utilities may defer any extraordinary bad debt expense and lost fee revenue that arises from the required customer protections into a regulatory asset for accounting purposes only. Any recovery requests will be considered in a utility’s next rate case or rate recovery filing.The Commission may extend the consumer protections outlined in Thursday order if the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into 2021.&nbsp; Click here to<a href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/20200521111445.pdf?Id=932794de-f0cc-4397-b1bf-948512be107e"> view the order</a>

Utilities ordered to offer payment plans, waive late fees through 2020

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican lawmakers in Kansas pushed Wednesday to greatly limit Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s power to keep businesses closed during the coronavirus pandemic and give the GOP-controlled Legislature’s leaders the final say over how federal coronavirus relief funds are spent.

GOP members of the Senate Judiciary Committee included the measures in a bill that the full Senate expects to consider Thursday, when the Legislature is scheduled for one, final day in session this year. Republicans tied their proposals to two must-have measures for Kelly — a formal ratification of Kelly’s previous coronavirus orders and an extension of state of emergency that she declared so that she could legally exercise broad powers.

A dispute between the Democratic governor and Republican legislative leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5e209a4b50d4e80632e9613458d31b7c">has grown increasingly bitter</a>&nbsp;over who controls the reopening of the state’s economy and the spending of coronavirus aid. Many GOP lawmakers contend Kelly is moving too slowly to reopen on the economy and dislike that her plan for lifting restrictions in phases between now and late June treats different kinds of businesses differently.

Republicans’ proposal would allow Kelly to close businesses only for a total of 15 days during the pandemic. After those 15 days, the health officers in each of the state’s 105 counties would decide whether businesses remained closed, subject to the approval of local county commissions. Because many Kansas businesses already have been shuttered longer than 15 days, it wasn’t immediately clear whether county officials could step immediately if the measure becomes law.

“One size doesn’t fit all,” said state Sen. Eric Rucker, a conservative Topeka Republican who drafted the language on business closings. “The overarching cry that we hear is the long-lasting — possibly lasting decades into the future — damage that has been caused economically.”

The bill cleared the Judiciary Committee on an 8-2 party-line vote, with only Republicans voting yes.

Kansas Republicans acted on the same day Kelly and GOP Gov. Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas met with President Donald Trump, who said both had “done a fantastic job.”

Kelly joins Democratic governors in other states, most notably Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in facing a backlash from Republican legislators over their actions to control the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Sen. David Haley, a Kansas City Democrat, said he’s concerned about limiting the governor’s to impose statewide restrictions because someone could travel between counties and “become a carrier.”

“This virus does not respect geo-political boundaries,” Haley said.

Kelly’s existing state of emergency will remain in place only through Monday, Memorial Day. Kelly has acknowledged that she may be forced to accept limits on her power to get lawmakers to extend the state of emergency — or watch her 30 coronavirus-related orders expire. Her top lawyer and legislators concede it’s an open question whether Kelly has the authority to keep issuing new declarations for the same emergency.

The bill also would give the Legislature’s top seven leaders, five of them Republicans, the final say over how $1.25 billion in coronavirus relief funds are spent after a review by a joint House-Senate budget committee.

Kelly appointed a 20-member task force to oversee the distribution of the money and help her manage the reopening of the state’s economy, and five legislators are members, including three Republicans. She and other Democrats argue that the task force will provide adequate oversight.

And Republican Sen. Randall Hardy of Salina worried that an extra layer of oversight could unnecessarily delay much-needed funds to cities and counties to cover their coronavirus costs.

But many GOP lawmakers argue that the Legislature has the duty to oversee how the aid is spent, just as it approves an annual state budget.

Without legislative oversight, the governor could decide how the funds are spent “on her sole authority,” said Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning, a Kansas City-area Republican who is serving on Kelly’s task force.

“It’s just really a safety check,” Denning said of legislative oversight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590058732968.png" alt="Members of the Kansas Senate worked late Wednesday in advance of Thursday's final day of the legislative session -photo courtesy Senate President Susan Wagle" />
 <figcaption>Members of the Kansas Senate worked late Wednesday in advance of Thursday's final day of the legislative session -photo courtesy Senate President Susan Wagle</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican lawmakers in Kansas pushed Wednesday to greatly limit Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s power to keep businesses closed during the coronavirus pandemic and give the GOP-controlled Legislature’s leaders the final say over how federal coronavirus relief funds are spent.GOP members of the Senate Judiciary Committee included the measures in a bill that the full Senate expects to consider Thursday, when the Legislature is scheduled for one, final day in session this year. Republicans tied their proposals to two must-have measures for Kelly — a formal ratification of Kelly’s previous coronavirus orders and an extension of state of emergency that she declared so that she could legally exercise broad powers.A dispute between the Democratic governor and Republican legislative leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5e209a4b50d4e80632e9613458d31b7c">has grown increasingly bitter</a>&nbsp;over who controls the reopening of the state’s economy and the spending of coronavirus aid. Many GOP lawmakers contend Kelly is moving too slowly to reopen on the economy and dislike that her plan for lifting restrictions in phases between now and late June treats different kinds of businesses differently.Republicans’ proposal would allow Kelly to close businesses only for a total of 15 days during the pandemic. After those 15 days, the health officers in each of the state’s 105 counties would decide whether businesses remained closed, subject to the approval of local county commissions. Because many Kansas businesses already have been shuttered longer than 15 days, it wasn’t immediately clear whether county officials could step immediately if the measure becomes law.“One size doesn’t fit all,” said state Sen. Eric Rucker, a conservative Topeka Republican who drafted the language on business closings. “The overarching cry that we hear is the long-lasting — possibly lasting decades into the future — damage that has been caused economically.”The bill cleared the Judiciary Committee on an 8-2 party-line vote, with only Republicans voting yes.Kansas Republicans acted on the same day Kelly and GOP Gov. Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas met with President Donald Trump, who said both had “done a fantastic job.”Kelly joins Democratic governors in other states, most notably Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in facing a backlash from Republican legislators over their actions to control the spread of the novel coronavirus.Sen. David Haley, a Kansas City Democrat, said he’s concerned about limiting the governor’s to impose statewide restrictions because someone could travel between counties and “become a carrier.”“This virus does not respect geo-political boundaries,” Haley said.Kelly’s existing state of emergency will remain in place only through Monday, Memorial Day. Kelly has acknowledged that she may be forced to accept limits on her power to get lawmakers to extend the state of emergency — or watch her 30 coronavirus-related orders expire. Her top lawyer and legislators concede it’s an open question whether Kelly has the authority to keep issuing new declarations for the same emergency.The bill also would give the Legislature’s top seven leaders, five of them Republicans, the final say over how $1.25 billion in coronavirus relief funds are spent after a review by a joint House-Senate budget committee.Kelly appointed a 20-member task force to oversee the distribution of the money and help her manage the reopening of the state’s economy, and five legislators are members, including three Republicans. She and other Democrats argue that the task force will provide adequate oversight.And Republican Sen. Randall Hardy of Salina worried that an extra layer of oversight could unnecessarily delay much-needed funds to cities and counties to cover their coronavirus costs.But many GOP lawmakers argue that the Legislature has the duty to oversee how the aid is spent, just as it approves an annual state budget.Without legislative oversight, the governor could decide how the funds are spent “on her sole authority,” said Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning, a Kansas City-area Republican who is serving on Kelly’s task force.“It’s just really a safety check,” Denning said of legislative oversight.___

GOP plan would keep Kansas governor from closing businesses

The pandemic is a difficult experience for all of us. The longer it goes on, the harder it gets to stay disciplined. The good news is that we are making progress in limiting the impact of the virus and communities are starting to relax restrictions in phases. This does not mean that we have reached the finish line. The medical experts warn that we are a long way from defeating this disease. The most important thing now is to maintain our discipline. This is tough as we are all tired of living in a world where we can"t have the social interaction we desire.

It is our individual discipline that has gotten us to where we are today. If we lose self-regulation, we risk going backward and winding up in a more restrictive situation. Just what we don't want. I have often seen this in my 40-year military career, where given life or death situations, or with mission accomplishment on the line, some did not have the discipline or willpower to continue doing what had kept them and their colleagues safe. When discipline broke down in these situations, the outcome was predictable and dire.

Our ultimate success is also a measure of our own compassion. Noted columnist and author David Brooks stated on "PBS NewsHour" on April 17 the way to overcome this pandemic is to exhibit social solidarity and surrender to the common good. This is not easy in America, where our individualism is prized. But when we are all challenged by a complex virus, we have to come together in ways that we have not had to do for most of our lives. We have to follow state and community guidelines. Yes, it is tough, but it is the&nbsp;only rational choice.

Kansas State University has an important mission. It is critical to individual success and the economic health of our nation. We want to return to in-person classes as soon as possible. Please be a part of the solution by staying mentally tough and disciplined. We are only as strong as our weakest link — none of us want to be the weak link that pushes us back to greater restrictions.

We started early in the pandemic urging our students, faculty and staff to be "K-State Strong." Their resiliency has been amazing.&nbsp;Now is the time for all of us to stay disciplined&nbsp;and strong for the sake of each other.

Richard B. Myers is the president of Kansas State University.&nbsp;From 2001-2005, he served as the 15th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and was the principal military adviser to the U.S. president, secretary of defense and the National Security Council.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590064827869.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers. Photo courtesy Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers. Photo courtesy Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By RICHARD B. MYERS The pandemic is a difficult experience for all of us. The longer it goes on, the harder it gets to stay disciplined. The good news is that we are making progress in limiting the impact of the virus and communities are starting to relax restrictions in phases. This does not mean that we have reached the finish line. The medical experts warn that we are a long way from defeating this disease. The most important thing now is to maintain our discipline. This is tough as we are all tired of living in a world where we can"t have the social interaction we desire.It is our individual discipline that has gotten us to where we are today. If we lose self-regulation, we risk going backward and winding up in a more restrictive situation. Just what we don't want. I have often seen this in my 40-year military career, where given life or death situations, or with mission accomplishment on the line, some did not have the discipline or willpower to continue doing what had kept them and their colleagues safe. When discipline broke down in these situations, the outcome was predictable and dire.Our ultimate success is also a measure of our own compassion. Noted columnist and author David Brooks stated on "PBS NewsHour" on April 17 the way to overcome this pandemic is to exhibit social solidarity and surrender to the common good. This is not easy in America, where our individualism is prized. But when we are all challenged by a complex virus, we have to come together in ways that we have not had to do for most of our lives. We have to follow state and community guidelines. Yes, it is tough, but it is the&nbsp;only rational choice.Kansas State University has an important mission. It is critical to individual success and the economic health of our nation. We want to return to in-person classes as soon as possible. Please be a part of the solution by staying mentally tough and disciplined. We are only as strong as our weakest link — none of us want to be the weak link that pushes us back to greater restrictions.We started early in the pandemic urging our students, faculty and staff to be "K-State Strong." Their resiliency has been amazing.&nbsp;Now is the time for all of us to stay disciplined&nbsp;and strong for the sake of each other.Richard B. Myers is the president of Kansas State University.&nbsp;From 2001-2005, he served as the 15th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and was the principal military adviser to the U.S. president, secretary of defense and the National Security Council.

OPINION: Discipline and strength required to vanquish pandemic foe

WASHINGTON —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly met with President Trump Wednesday afternoon to discus the state’s phased reopening, statewide virus testing strategy and much more.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472315-1/president-trump-meeting-governors-arkansas-kansas">Click here to watch</a> a portion of Governor Kelly's visit with the President.

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and&nbsp; Response Coordinator for the White House Coronavirus Task Force Dr.&nbsp; Debra Birx also attended the meeting.

Trump said both governors have done "a fantastic job.”&nbsp;

"I know Laura will speak her mind and so will some of the others and if she was unhappy she'd be letting you know it," the President said.

"We've done a really great job. We've gotten along great with the democrat governors."

Before leaving Topeka, Kelly said the President understands that state and local governments need assistance well beyond stimulus three, the Cares Act, that will allow states to pay the bills for COVID-19 but will not allow states to cover any of the revenue losses that both the state government and local entities are experiencing.&nbsp;

Kelly is expected to share more about her visit with the President during her Thursday afternoon press conference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590011287498.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly and President Trump during Wednesday afternoon's meeting in the White House Cabinet Room -image scourtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly and President Trump during Wednesday afternoon's meeting in the White House Cabinet Room -image scourtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly met with President Trump Wednesday afternoon to discus the state’s phased reopening, statewide virus testing strategy and much more.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472315-1/president-trump-meeting-governors-arkansas-kansas">Click here to watch</a> a portion of Governor Kelly's visit with the President.Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and&nbsp; Response Coordinator for the White House Coronavirus Task Force Dr.&nbsp; Debra Birx also attended the meeting.Trump said both governors have done "a fantastic job.”&nbsp;"I know Laura will speak her mind and so will some of the others and if she was unhappy she'd be letting you know it," the President said."We've done a really great job. We've gotten along great with the democrat governors."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590012624852.png" alt="President Trump with a message board to show Governor Kelly what the Feds have done for Kansas during the pandemic providing 108, 332,082 surgical and exam gloves, 341,262 eye and face shields, 6,975,130 N95 masks and 1,714, 626 isolation and surgical gowns." />
 <figcaption>President Trump with a message board to show Governor Kelly what the Feds have done for Kansas during the pandemic providing 108, 332,082 surgical and exam gloves, 341,262 eye and face shields, 6,975,130 N95 masks and 1,714, 626 isolation and surgical gowns.</figcaption>
 </figure>Before leaving Topeka, Kelly said the President understands that state and local governments need assistance well beyond stimulus three, the Cares Act, that will allow states to pay the bills for COVID-19 but will not allow states to cover any of the revenue losses that both the state government and local entities are experiencing.&nbsp;Kelly is expected to share more about her visit with the President during her Thursday afternoon press conference.

🎥 Governor Kelly meets with President at the White House

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas softened its quarantine guidelines for meatpacking plants after industry executives repeatedly pushed state officials to allow employees who were potentially exposed to the coronavirus to keep working, text messages and emails show.

The Kansas City Star&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article242852011.html" target="_blank">reported that they obtained</a>&nbsp;messages through an open records request showing that executives at Tyson and National Beef pushed Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam to advocate more-lenient federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.

Beam told The Associated Press on Wednesday that his role was to “emphasize internally” in Gov. Laura Kelly’s administration that there would be major problems with the nation’s food supply if the plants shut down. Beam worked for the Kansas Livestock Association for 38 years before becoming agriculture secretary in 2019.

“It was a balancing act, and I basically was feeding that into the mix,” he said.

The Star reported that in an April 20 text to Beam, National Beef Chief Operating Officer Terry Wilkerson noted that two meatpacking plants elsewhere in the U.S. were shutting down.

“The sooner we get the CDC new guidance in place the better,” he wrote.

Ruth Bradley, manager of state and local government relations at Tyson, texted Beam on April 15 saying that because of a higher rate of absenteeism among workers, Tyson wanted to follow CDC guidelines allowing workers without symptoms to still work if they wear a mask.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment updated its guidelines on May 2 to allow meatpacking employees who have come into close contact with positive cases to stay on the job as long as they showed no symptoms and took precautions. It previously advised contacts to quarantine for two weeks.

Kansas, which processes more than a quarter of the nation’s beef, has had nearly 2,000 people infected with COVID-19 from outbreaks linked to the state’s meatpacking plants and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1125/Historical---May-18?bidId=" target="_blank">six people have died</a>. With the exception of a Johnsonville plant in Holton, large processors have stayed open in Kansas throughout the pandemic, although operating at a reduced capacity.

During a news conference Tuesday, Kelly pointed “proudly” to plants continuing to operate.

Beam wrote in an April 21 email to Will Lawrence, Kelly’s chief of staff, that it appeared Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Lee Norman, who has been leading the state’s pandemic health response, was “not wanting to defer” to the less restrictive federal guidance.

Beam said he wanted Lawrence to know the issue was “brewing,” adding, “I sense National Beef, and others, would like to have a response fairly soon.”

Two days later, Beam texted meatpacking contacts that he would be calling “regarding a POSSIBLE path for letting close contacts return to work.”

Beam told the AP that his relationship with Norman remained “cordial” and that the health department changed its guidance after a CDC team physically reviewed Kansas plants. Beam said the final decision was the health department’s.

Health department spokeswoman Ashley Jones-Wisner said in a statement that before the new guidance was issued, conversations among her agency, the Department of Agriculture and the companies occurred regularly as the state tracked “how each plant was doing.”

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on April 28 directing meatpacking plants to stay open.

“Our concern was, and remains, public health protections within the parameters outlined by the federal government,” Jones-Wisner said.

National Beef Chief Financial Officer Simon McGee requested in an email to Beam that Kelly’s office speak to the union representing workers at the company’s Dodge City plant about the “special responsibility” of meatpacking employees.

Company spokesman Keith Welty said in a statement that the company’s focus throughout the pandemic has been protecting “the health, wellness and safety of our employees.”

Tyson spokeswoman Liz Croston said Tuesday that the company “will not ask anyone to work in our plants unless we are confident that it is safe.” She said correspondence with state officials “reflects our interest in the consistent application of federal safety guidance.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589997636847.png" alt="Photo courtesy Tyson Foods" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Tyson Foods</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas softened its quarantine guidelines for meatpacking plants after industry executives repeatedly pushed state officials to allow employees who were potentially exposed to the coronavirus to keep working, text messages and emails show.The Kansas City Star&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article242852011.html" target="_blank">reported that they obtained</a>&nbsp;messages through an open records request showing that executives at Tyson and National Beef pushed Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam to advocate more-lenient federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.Beam told The Associated Press on Wednesday that his role was to “emphasize internally” in Gov. Laura Kelly’s administration that there would be major problems with the nation’s food supply if the plants shut down. Beam worked for the Kansas Livestock Association for 38 years before becoming agriculture secretary in 2019.“It was a balancing act, and I basically was feeding that into the mix,” he said.The Star reported that in an April 20 text to Beam, National Beef Chief Operating Officer Terry Wilkerson noted that two meatpacking plants elsewhere in the U.S. were shutting down.“The sooner we get the CDC new guidance in place the better,” he wrote.Ruth Bradley, manager of state and local government relations at Tyson, texted Beam on April 15 saying that because of a higher rate of absenteeism among workers, Tyson wanted to follow CDC guidelines allowing workers without symptoms to still work if they wear a mask.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589997771819.png" alt="Photo courtesy Tyson Foods" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Tyson Foods</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment updated its guidelines on May 2 to allow meatpacking employees who have come into close contact with positive cases to stay on the job as long as they showed no symptoms and took precautions. It previously advised contacts to quarantine for two weeks.Kansas, which processes more than a quarter of the nation’s beef, has had nearly 2,000 people infected with COVID-19 from outbreaks linked to the state’s meatpacking plants and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1125/Historical---May-18?bidId=" target="_blank">six people have died</a>. With the exception of a Johnsonville plant in Holton, large processors have stayed open in Kansas throughout the pandemic, although operating at a reduced capacity.During a news conference Tuesday, Kelly pointed “proudly” to plants continuing to operate.Beam wrote in an April 21 email to Will Lawrence, Kelly’s chief of staff, that it appeared Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Lee Norman, who has been leading the state’s pandemic health response, was “not wanting to defer” to the less restrictive federal guidance.Beam said he wanted Lawrence to know the issue was “brewing,” adding, “I sense National Beef, and others, would like to have a response fairly soon.”Two days later, Beam texted meatpacking contacts that he would be calling “regarding a POSSIBLE path for letting close contacts return to work.”Beam told the AP that his relationship with Norman remained “cordial” and that the health department changed its guidance after a CDC team physically reviewed Kansas plants. Beam said the final decision was the health department’s.Health department spokeswoman Ashley Jones-Wisner said in a statement that before the new guidance was issued, conversations among her agency, the Department of Agriculture and the companies occurred regularly as the state tracked “how each plant was doing.”President Donald Trump signed an executive order on April 28 directing meatpacking plants to stay open.“Our concern was, and remains, public health protections within the parameters outlined by the federal government,” Jones-Wisner said.National Beef Chief Financial Officer Simon McGee requested in an email to Beam that Kelly’s office speak to the union representing workers at the company’s Dodge City plant about the “special responsibility” of meatpacking employees.Company spokesman Keith Welty said in a statement that the company’s focus throughout the pandemic has been protecting “the health, wellness and safety of our employees.”Tyson spokeswoman Liz Croston said Tuesday that the company “will not ask anyone to work in our plants unless we are confident that it is safe.” She said correspondence with state officials “reflects our interest in the consistent application of federal safety guidance.”

Coronavirus Update