State budget work is always difficult in Jefferson City, but
the coronavirus outbreak makes it doubly difficult.

State Sen. Dan Hegeman of Cosby chairs the Senate
Appropriations Committee and says state lawmakers will have to factor in how
COVID-19 is affecting the state.

“From a budget standpoint, as a whole, we need to take into
consideration all the costs of the coronavirus that’s coming down the path and
its impact on the economy,” Cosby tells St. Joseph Post.

A one-two punch, in effect. It could cost the state plenty to fight
a potential outbreak in Missouri and COVID-19 has already shaken the state
economy, reducing tax revenue, perhaps drastically.

The Missouri House postponed a scheduled vote on the nearly $31
billion state budget submitted by Gov. Mike Parson in order to get a better
handle on how the drop in the economy created by the coronavirus will impact
state revenue.

The House must pass its version before sending it on to the
Senate, which is out at least until next week. 

Hegeman says the Senate is prepared to get a state budget
approved by the May 8th deadline.

“We will get that done and, like I said, hopefully a few other
bills,” Hegeman says. “After that, we’ll see where we are. I would love to see
us be able to have a full, complete session, but we need to be wise and
cautious as well.”

Hegeman doesn’t believe the state will have to tap the Rainy
Day Fund to fund the response to the crisis. State officials expect the federal
government to offset most, if not all, of the COVID-19 response.

Gov. Parson says much has to re-assessed as legislators work
on the budget.

“But this is a lot more than COVID-19,” Parson tells Capitol
reporters. “This is thousands of people losing their jobs. This is businesses
closing down. There are a lot of things that are going to be at stake. So, for me
as governor, I want it to be about as wide open as we can make it to deal with
COVID-19.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostState budget work is always difficult in Jefferson City, but
the coronavirus outbreak makes it doubly difficult.State Sen. Dan Hegeman of Cosby chairs the Senate
Appropriations Committee and says state lawmakers will have to factor in how
COVID-19 is affecting the state.“From a budget standpoint, as a whole, we need to take into
consideration all the costs of the coronavirus that’s coming down the path and
its impact on the economy,” Cosby tells St. Joseph Post.A one-two punch, in effect. It could cost the state plenty to fight
a potential outbreak in Missouri and COVID-19 has already shaken the state
economy, reducing tax revenue, perhaps drastically.The Missouri House postponed a scheduled vote on the nearly $31
billion state budget submitted by Gov. Mike Parson in order to get a better
handle on how the drop in the economy created by the coronavirus will impact
state revenue.The House must pass its version before sending it on to the
Senate, which is out at least until next week. Hegeman says the Senate is prepared to get a state budget
approved by the May 8th deadline.“We will get that done and, like I said, hopefully a few other
bills,” Hegeman says. “After that, we’ll see where we are. I would love to see
us be able to have a full, complete session, but we need to be wise and
cautious as well.”Hegeman doesn’t believe the state will have to tap the Rainy
Day Fund to fund the response to the crisis. State officials expect the federal
government to offset most, if not all, of the COVID-19 response.Gov. Parson says much has to re-assessed as legislators work
on the budget.“But this is a lot more than COVID-19,” Parson tells Capitol
reporters. “This is thousands of people losing their jobs. This is businesses
closing down. There are a lot of things that are going to be at stake. So, for me
as governor, I want it to be about as wide open as we can make it to deal with
COVID-19.”

Coronavirus making state budget work much harder

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly and KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman addressed the state's battle against coronavirus in Kansas during a Monday afternoon press conference.

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly and KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman addressed the state's battle against coronavirus in Kansas during a Monday afternoon press conference.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F142394470500566%2F&show_text=1&width=560" width="560" height="470" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584989395066.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas 

St. Joseph city officials have closed city playgrounds to
children due to coronavirus concerns.

The City of St. Joseph has stated playground equipment will be
closed to the public in an effort to cut off the spread of COVID-19. The closing
of the playgrounds is part of the amended emergency declaration issued by the
city.

Playgrounds might be closed, but the city does point out city
parks and trails remain open. In fact, city officials encourage the public to
use the parks and trails as a way to get out and exercise even as they maintain
the social distance recommended by health officials.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584989420124.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph city officials have closed city playgrounds to
children due to coronavirus concerns.The City of St. Joseph has stated playground equipment will be
closed to the public in an effort to cut off the spread of COVID-19. The closing
of the playgrounds is part of the amended emergency declaration issued by the
city.Playgrounds might be closed, but the city does point out city
parks and trails remain open. In fact, city officials encourage the public to
use the parks and trails as a way to get out and exercise even as they maintain
the social distance recommended by health officials.

St. Joseph closes playgrounds due to COVID-19

The Clinton County, Missouri, Health Department confirmed Monday morning there is a positive case of COVID-19 in the county.

According to the Clinton County Health Department, the resident is a man in his 40s. He is experiencing mild illness, and is recovering at home, under voluntary self-isolation.

According to the Health Department, the case appears to be community-acquired, meaning the patient had no known contacts with other positive cases.

The Health Department asks everyone to assume the virus is present in every community within the region, and to apply the social distancing measures that have been ordered by the Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services.

by Sarah ThomackSt. Joseph PostThe Clinton County, Missouri, Health Department confirmed Monday morning there is a positive case of COVID-19 in the county.According to the Clinton County Health Department, the resident is a man in his 40s. He is experiencing mild illness, and is recovering at home, under voluntary self-isolation.According to the Health Department, the case appears to be community-acquired, meaning the patient had no known contacts with other positive cases.The Health Department asks everyone to assume the virus is present in every community within the region, and to apply the social distancing measures that have been ordered by the Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services.

Positive case of COVID-19 reported in Clinton County

"Hands .. washing hands. Reaching out .. don't touch me. I won't touch you!"

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Stay safe out there! “Hands... washing hands..” 🎶 <a href="https://t.co/QaRB1qZshp">pic.twitter.com/QaRB1qZshp</a>&mdash; Neil Diamond (@NeilDiamond) <a href="https://twitter.com/NeilDiamond/status/1241584423927074818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>"Hands .. washing hands. Reaching out .. don't touch me. I won't touch you!"

Neil Diamond offers up coronavirus update to 'Sweet Caroline'

St. Joseph City Hall has closed indefinitely.

St. Joseph city officials have closed City Hall to the public “to
ensure proper social distancing and help reduce the spread of virus.”

Some city services may be done by appointment. Otherwise, business
with the city can be conducted via the phone of through the city website at
<a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/">stjoemo.org</a>. The main city number is 816-271-5300.

In person payments can be made at the drop box located to the
left of the main north door at City Hall.

Other city facilities closed at this time are the parks administration
building at 1920 Grand Avenue and the Civic Arena lobby. The parks department
number is 271-5500.

The St. Joseph City COVID-19 Call Center number is
816-271-4613.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584972841074.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph City Hall" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph City Hall</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph City Hall has closed indefinitely.St. Joseph city officials have closed City Hall to the public “to
ensure proper social distancing and help reduce the spread of virus.”Some city services may be done by appointment. Otherwise, business
with the city can be conducted via the phone of through the city website at
<a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/">stjoemo.org</a>. The main city number is 816-271-5300.In person payments can be made at the drop box located to the
left of the main north door at City Hall.Other city facilities closed at this time are the parks administration
building at 1920 Grand Avenue and the Civic Arena lobby. The parks department
number is 271-5500.The St. Joseph City COVID-19 Call Center number is
816-271-4613.

St. Joseph City Hall closed, for now

Mosaic Life Care continues
to report no confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Mosaic officials
say the hospital network has tested 42 people for coronavirus. Thirty-two tests
have returned as negative. Results for 10 tests are pending.

Mosaic has
tightened visitation restrictions as a precaution due to coronavirus. Mosaic
will allow only one visitor per patient, beginning today. No children will be allowed
to visit patients. Visitors must be at least 18.

Also, Mosaic will
screen every patient and approved visitor for COVID-19 at the hospital entrance.
If anyone is experiencing symptoms, they will be asked to leave.

Mosaic Life Care
says the steps are being taken to protect patients, caregivers, guests. and
community.

For more information on the visitor policy, click <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/corona">here</a>.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care continues
to report no confirmed cases of COVID-19.Mosaic officials
say the hospital network has tested 42 people for coronavirus. Thirty-two tests
have returned as negative. Results for 10 tests are pending.Mosaic has
tightened visitation restrictions as a precaution due to coronavirus. Mosaic
will allow only one visitor per patient, beginning today. No children will be allowed
to visit patients. Visitors must be at least 18.Also, Mosaic will
screen every patient and approved visitor for COVID-19 at the hospital entrance.
If anyone is experiencing symptoms, they will be asked to leave.Mosaic Life Care
says the steps are being taken to protect patients, caregivers, guests. and
community.For more information on the visitor policy, click <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/corona">here</a>.

Mosaic:  still no confirmed COVID-19 cases; visitor restrictions tighten

Restrictions
put in place over coronavirus concerns will get tighter for St Joseph
residents, beginning after midnight Monday.

The
city of St. Joseph has issued a shelter in place order, effective at 12:01am
Tuesday until 11:59pm Thursday, April 2nd.

The
amended declaration of a local state of emergency strongly encourages St.
Joseph residents to remain in their homes and avoid contact with anyone outside
their residence except to buy food and supplies and to seek medical treatment.

Non-essential
businesses will not be allowed to operate. Essential businesses must make
reasonable efforts to require employees to remain separated by at least six
feet. The definition of essential businesses is below. Residents can travel
only to attend work at an essential business or to buy food (including from
restaurants, medicine, supplies, or pet supplies. Residents can travel for outdoor
recreational activities. People should make reasonable efforts to be separated
by at least six feet when they go out.

No service
business which require personal contact will be allowed to operate, except for
those which provide necessary medical treatment ordered by a physician. Such
services include, but are not limited to hair salon services, nail salon
services, tattooing, and massage services.

Existing
restrictions of the initial emergency declaration remain in place.

The city
call center will be open on Sunday from 10am until 7pm to answer the public’s
questions. The call center number is 816-271-4613.

An amended emergency declaration has been issued by St. Joseph city officials:

REISSUED SECOND AMENDED DECLARATION AND ORDER

NOTE: For simplicity, this release is being re-issued in its entirety with the changes reflected within in red. The changes are clarification to several updates and/or additions to Section 4 of the Second Amended Declaration and Order originally issued March 21.

Effective at 12:01am on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, and continuing until 11:59pm on Thursday, April 2, 2020, unless otherwise amended, withdrawn, or terminated, an amended declaration of a local state of emergency will enforce the following:

• That, to the maximum extent possible, citizens of the City of St. Joseph, Missouri, are strongly encouraged to shelter in place, by remaining in their respective residences, avoiding contact with people with whom they do not reside, and avoiding public places except when necessary to obtain food, supplies, and medical treatment.

• Businesses which are non-essential shall be prohibited from operating. Non-essential business are those that do not fall under the definition of essential as indicated below.

• Essential businesses, as defined below, shall make reasonable efforts to require people to remain separated by physical space of at least six feet.

• Travel may occur only for the purpose of attending work at an essential business, obtaining necessary food (including from restaurants, medicine, supplies, or pet supplies. Travel in the course of participating in outdoor recreational activities may also occur.

• When in public, or when participating in outdoor recreational activities, people shall make reasonable efforts to be separated by physical space of at least six feet.

• No business or person shall provide services that require contact between a person providing the service and the customer unless the service is for necessary medical treatment that has been ordered by a physician. Such services that shall not be provided include, but are not limited to, hair salon services, nail salon services, tattooing, and massage services.

Existing restrictions of the Declaration and Order remain effective.

Due to the changes being implemented, the city’s call center will be open Sunday, March 22, from 10am-7pm to answer any questions the public may have. The call center number is 816-271-4613.

For the purposes of this Second Amended Declaration and Order, the term “Essential Businesses” shall mean businesses or organizations which are providing any of the following as a substantial element of their daily operations:

1. Healthcare and public health services and supply distribution (for human or animal care);

2. Law enforcement, public safety, first responder, emergency dispatch, and security;

3. Agriculture and food creation, transportation, distribution, and retail sales (for human or animal consumption);

4. Restaurant and prepared food distribution (for allowed distribution methods);

5. Energy, electricity, petroleum, natural gas and propane acquisition, extractions, production, generation, processing, storage, distribution, and retail distribution;

6. Water and wastewater processing, treatment, conveyance, and distribution;

7. Logistics and transportation of goods and people, repair of transportation systems and infrastructure, transportation dispatch, packaging material manufacturing, shipping, air and rail transportation, and support services;

8. Public infrastructure support and maintenance;

9. Communications infrastructure support and maintenance;

10. Information technology development, management, support, and security;

11. Education (including childcare) and governmental operations;

12. Critical community assistance and preparedness services;

13. Manufacturing of necessary consumables and their components;

14. Chemical and hazardous materials handling and cleanup;

17. Home repair of critical utilities and facilities, including buildings; (Home is removed and including buildings added.)

18. Construction and related activities; (Item added)

19. Services related to real estate transactions, including title searches, appraisals, permitting, inspections, moving, and recordation, legal, financial and other necessary services; and (Item added)

20. Services related to funerals and end-of-life care, including burials, religious services, and floral services for funeral; (Item added)

21. Cleaning involving sanitizing; (Item added)

22. Grass, weed, and vegetation removal (excluding other lawn and landscaping services;

23. Support for the foregoing services; and

24. Functions that the Director of Health deems, in writing, to be essential services.

Notwithstanding
the aforementioned designated services, the list of Essential Businesses may be
modified by a subsequent declaration and order.

For more on the emergency declaration, click <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/civicalerts.aspx?AID=945">here</a>.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostRestrictions
put in place over coronavirus concerns will get tighter for St Joseph
residents, beginning after midnight Monday.The
city of St. Joseph has issued a shelter in place order, effective at 12:01am
Tuesday until 11:59pm Thursday, April 2nd.The
amended declaration of a local state of emergency strongly encourages St.
Joseph residents to remain in their homes and avoid contact with anyone outside
their residence except to buy food and supplies and to seek medical treatment.Non-essential
businesses will not be allowed to operate. Essential businesses must make
reasonable efforts to require employees to remain separated by at least six
feet. The definition of essential businesses is below. Residents can travel
only to attend work at an essential business or to buy food (including from
restaurants, medicine, supplies, or pet supplies. Residents can travel for outdoor
recreational activities. People should make reasonable efforts to be separated
by at least six feet when they go out.No service
business which require personal contact will be allowed to operate, except for
those which provide necessary medical treatment ordered by a physician. Such
services include, but are not limited to hair salon services, nail salon
services, tattooing, and massage services.Existing
restrictions of the initial emergency declaration remain in place.The city
call center will be open on Sunday from 10am until 7pm to answer the public’s
questions. The call center number is 816-271-4613.An amended emergency declaration has been issued by St. Joseph city officials:REISSUED SECOND AMENDED DECLARATION AND ORDER(March 23, 2020)FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASENOTE: For simplicity, this release is being re-issued in its entirety with the changes reflected within in red. The changes are clarification to several updates and/or additions to Section 4 of the Second Amended Declaration and Order originally issued March 21.Effective at 12:01am on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, and continuing until 11:59pm on Thursday, April 2, 2020, unless otherwise amended, withdrawn, or terminated, an amended declaration of a local state of emergency will enforce the following:• That, to the maximum extent possible, citizens of the City of St. Joseph, Missouri, are strongly encouraged to shelter in place, by remaining in their respective residences, avoiding contact with people with whom they do not reside, and avoiding public places except when necessary to obtain food, supplies, and medical treatment.• Businesses which are non-essential shall be prohibited from operating. Non-essential business are those that do not fall under the definition of essential as indicated below.• Essential businesses, as defined below, shall make reasonable efforts to require people to remain separated by physical space of at least six feet.• Travel may occur only for the purpose of attending work at an essential business, obtaining necessary food (including from restaurants, medicine, supplies, or pet supplies. Travel in the course of participating in outdoor recreational activities may also occur.• When in public, or when participating in outdoor recreational activities, people shall make reasonable efforts to be separated by physical space of at least six feet.• No business or person shall provide services that require contact between a person providing the service and the customer unless the service is for necessary medical treatment that has been ordered by a physician. Such services that shall not be provided include, but are not limited to, hair salon services, nail salon services, tattooing, and massage services.Existing restrictions of the Declaration and Order remain effective.Due to the changes being implemented, the city’s call center will be open Sunday, March 22, from 10am-7pm to answer any questions the public may have. The call center number is 816-271-4613.Essential BusinessesFor the purposes of this Second Amended Declaration and Order, the term “Essential Businesses” shall mean businesses or organizations which are providing any of the following as a substantial element of their daily operations:1. Healthcare and public health services and supply distribution (for human or animal care);2. Law enforcement, public safety, first responder, emergency dispatch, and security;3. Agriculture and food creation, transportation, distribution, and retail sales (for human or animal consumption);4. Restaurant and prepared food distribution (for allowed distribution methods);5. Energy, electricity, petroleum, natural gas and propane acquisition, extractions, production, generation, processing, storage, distribution, and retail distribution;6. Water and wastewater processing, treatment, conveyance, and distribution;7. Logistics and transportation of goods and people, repair of transportation systems and infrastructure, transportation dispatch, packaging material manufacturing, shipping, air and rail transportation, and support services;8. Public infrastructure support and maintenance;9. Communications infrastructure support and maintenance;10. Information technology development, management, support, and security;11. Education (including childcare) and governmental operations;12. Critical community assistance and preparedness services;13. Manufacturing of necessary consumables and their components;14. Chemical and hazardous materials handling and cleanup;15. Critical financial services;16. Military operations;17. Home repair of critical utilities and facilities, including buildings; (Home is removed and including buildings added.)18. Construction and related activities; (Item added)19. Services related to real estate transactions, including title searches, appraisals, permitting, inspections, moving, and recordation, legal, financial and other necessary services; and (Item added)20. Services related to funerals and end-of-life care, including burials, religious services, and floral services for funeral; (Item added)21. Cleaning involving sanitizing; (Item added)22. Grass, weed, and vegetation removal (excluding other lawn and landscaping services;(Item added)23. Support for the foregoing services; and24. Functions that the Director of Health deems, in writing, to be essential services.Notwithstanding
the aforementioned designated services, the list of Essential Businesses may be
modified by a subsequent declaration and order.For more on the emergency declaration, click <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/civicalerts.aspx?AID=945">here</a>.

St. Joseph issues shelter in place order

WASHINGTON — The White House is urging commercial labs to prioritize the testing of hospital patients as they work to clear a backlog of tests for the coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHouse/videos/223431462181095/">Click here to watch</a> Sunday's Coronavirus Task force briefing

Vice President Mike Pence says the Department of Health and Human Services will issue formal guidance Monday, but that the federal government is encouraging all labs to “prioritize inpatient testing.”

Pence says the government hopes to have the backlog of existing tests — a milestone the White House hoped to reach on Monday — cleared by the middle of the week.

The White House is encouraging those without symptoms against seeking testing, warning it depletes already scarce supplies of personal protective equipment for healthcare providers.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump says he’s ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ship mobile hospital centers to the hard-hit states of Washington, California and New York amid the coronavirus pandemic. For New York, that would mean another 1,000 hospital beds.

Trump is also revealing for the first time the number of respirators and other personal protective equipment sent to the hard-hit states by the federal government. It comes as state and local leaders have appealed on the federal government to provide far more, and as Trump has held off on using his fully authorities under the Defense Production Act to marshal the private sector’s capabilities.

Trump says it’s up to states to try to get the materials first. He says: "We're sort of a backup for states."

Trump says he’s also giving governors in those three states in calling up their national guard, keeping it under local control but providing federal funding. @Michael Tackett

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584917179545.png" alt="Vice President Mike Pence during Sunday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing" />
 <figcaption>Vice President Mike Pence during Sunday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — The White House is urging commercial labs to prioritize the testing of hospital patients as they work to clear a backlog of tests for the coronavirus.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHouse/videos/223431462181095/">Click here to watch</a> Sunday's Coronavirus Task force briefingVice President Mike Pence says the Department of Health and Human Services will issue formal guidance Monday, but that the federal government is encouraging all labs to “prioritize inpatient testing.”Pence says the government hopes to have the backlog of existing tests — a milestone the White House hoped to reach on Monday — cleared by the middle of the week.The White House is encouraging those without symptoms against seeking testing, warning it depletes already scarce supplies of personal protective equipment for healthcare providers.___WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump says he’s ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ship mobile hospital centers to the hard-hit states of Washington, California and New York amid the coronavirus pandemic. For New York, that would mean another 1,000 hospital beds.Trump is also revealing for the first time the number of respirators and other personal protective equipment sent to the hard-hit states by the federal government. It comes as state and local leaders have appealed on the federal government to provide far more, and as Trump has held off on using his fully authorities under the Defense Production Act to marshal the private sector’s capabilities.Trump says it’s up to states to try to get the materials first. He says: "We're sort of a backup for states."Trump says he’s also giving governors in those three states in calling up their national guard, keeping it under local control but providing federal funding. @Michael Tackett___

White House urges labs to prioritize tests for coronavirus

WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House churned late into the night over a now nearly $2 trillion economic rescue package, as the coronavirus crisis deepened, the nation shut down and the first U.S. senator tested positive for the disease.

As President Donald Trump took to the podium in the White House briefing room and promised to help Americans who feel afraid and isolated as the pandemic spreads, the Senate voted Sunday against advancing the rescue package. But talks continued on Capitol Hill.

“I think you’ll get there. To me it’s not very complicated: We have to help the worker. We have to save the companies,” Trump said.

Later, the Republican president suggested the remedies may be more harmful than the outbreak, vowing to reassess after the 15-day mark of the shutdown. “WE CANNOT LET THE CURE BE WORSE THAN THE PROBLEM ITSELF,” he tweeted.

Inside the otherwise emptied out Capitol, the draft aid bill was declared insufficient by Democrats, who argued it was tilted toward corporations and did too little to help workers and health care providers. Republicans returned to the negotiating table.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, exiting the Capitol just before midnight, struck an optimistic note: “We’re very close,” he said, adding negotiators would work through the night.

“Our nation cannot afford a game of chicken,” warned Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., his voice rising on the Senate floor Sunday night. His goal is to vote Monday. The Senate will re-convene at noon.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y, sounded an optimistic note.

“This bill is going to affect this country and the lives of Americans, not just for the next few days, but in the next few months and years — so we have to make sure it is good, he said. ‘”There were some serious problems with the bill leader McConnell laid down. Huge amounts of corporate bailout funds without restrictions or without oversight — you wouldn’t even know who is getting the money. Not enough money for hospitals, nurses, PPE, masks, all the health care needs. No money for state and local government, many of whom would go broke. Many other things.”

But Schumer said they were making progress in dealing with those issues. “We’re getting closer and closer. And I’m very hopeful, is how I’d put it, that we can get a bill in the morning.”

With a population on edge and shell-shocked financial markets poised for the new work week, Washington labored under the size and scope of the rescue package that’s more ambitious than any in recent times — larger than the 2008 bank bailout and 2009 recovery act combined.

Democrats say the largely GOP-led effort did not go far enough to provide health care and worker aid and fails to put restraints on a proposed $500 billion “slush fund” for corporations. They voted to block its advance.

Democrats won a concession — to provide four months of expanded unemployment benefits, rather than just three as proposed, according to an official granted anonymity to discuss the private talks. The jobless pay also extends to self-employed and so-called gig workers.

While the congressional leaders worked into the night, alarms were being sounded from coast to coast about the wave of coronavirus cases about to crash onto the nation’s health system.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio had dire, urgent news from the pandemic’s U.S. epicenter: “April and May are going to be a lot worse,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”

De Blasio, a Democrat, all but begged Washington to help procure ventilators and other medical supplies. He accused the Republican president of “not lifting a finger” to help.

Trump urged Congress to get a deal done and, during the Sunday briefing, responded to criticism that his administration was sluggish to act. He cited his cooperation with the three states hardest hit — New York, Washington and California — and invoked a measure to give governors flexibility in calling up the national guard under their control, while the federal government covers the bill.

But even as Trump stressed federal-local partnerships, some governors, including Republican Greg Abbott of Texas, expressed unhappiness with Washington’s response. The president himself took a swipe hours earlier at Gov. J. B. Pritzker, D-Ill., saying that he and “a very small group of certain other Governors, together with Fake News” should not be “blaming the Federal Government for their own shortcomings.”

This came as Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky announced he tested positive for the coronavirus. Paul, who is a doctor and close ally of the president, said in a tweet he was not showing symptoms and was in quarantine.

Paul was seen at a GOP senators’ lunch on Friday and swimming in the Senate gym pool on Sunday morning, heightening concerns. His office said he left the Senate immediately after learning his diagnosis.

A growing list of lawmakers have cycled in and out of isolation after exposure, and two members of the House have said they tested positive. Five senators were in self-quarantine Sunday evening and could not vote.

In recent days, Trump invoked the Defense Protection Act, a rarely used, decades-old authority that can be used to compel the private sector to manufacture needed medical supplies like masks and ventilators. Officials said Sunday that it would be used voluntarily and businesses would not be compelled to act.

“We are a country not based on nationalizing our business,” said Trump, who has repeatedly railed against socialism overseas and among Democrats.

Two days after he lashed out at a reporter who asked about his message to frightened Americans, Trump said, “For those worried and afraid, please know as long as I am your president, you can feel confident that you have a leader who will always fight for you.”

But minutes later, when he learned that rival Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, was one of those in isolation, he declared, “Romney’s in isolation? Gee, that’s too bad.”

The urgency to act is mounting, as jobless claims skyrocket and the financial markets are set to re-open Monday eager for signs that Washington can soften the blow of the healthcare crisis and what experts say is a looming recession. Stock futures declined sharply as Trump spoke Sunday evening.

Officials late Sunday put the price tag of the ballooning rescue package at nearly $2 trillion. That does not include additional measures being taken by the Federal Reserve to shore up the economy.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who was leading a third day of nonstop talks on Capitol Hill, said the plan was meant to prop up the nation’s weakened economy for the next 10 to 12 weeks.

Central to the package is as much as $350 billion for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home. There is also a one-time rebate check of about $1,200 per person, or $3,000 for a family of four, as well as the extended unemployment benefits.

Hospitals, Mnuchin said, will get approximately $110 billion for the expected influx of sick patients.

The treasury secretary said a significant part of the package will involve working with the Federal Reserve for up to $4 trillion of liquidity to support the economy with “broad-based lending programs.”

But Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have pushed for add-ons, including food security aid, small business loans and other measures for workers.

They warned the draft plan’s $500 billion for corporations does not put enough restraints on business, saying the ban on corporate stock buy-backs is weak and the limits on executive pay are only for two years.

“We’re not here to create a slush fund for Donald Trump and his family, or a slush fund for the Treasury Department to be able to hand out to their friends,” said Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “We’re here to help workers, we’re here to help hospitals.”

The president, when pressed by a reporter, dodged a question as to whether his own business would seek federal funds.

With Sunday’s failed vote, McConnell angrily blamed Pelosi, who returned to Washington for a top-level meeting, saying she “poured cold water” over the draft plan. But any measure from the Senate also needs to pass the House.

The details are coming from drafts of both bills circulating among lobbyists but not yet released to the public. They were obtained by The Associated Press.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

WASHINGTON — The Senate has refused to advance the coronavirus rescue package in a procedural vote with Democrats rejecting a draft from Republicans and pushing for more aid for workers.

Negotiations are expected to continue into the evening Sunday.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has urged senators to “signal to the public that we're ready to get this job done.” He wants passage by Monday.

But Democrats have resisted, arguing the nearly $1.4 trillion measure needs to bolster aid and put limits on how businesses can use the emergency dollars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584959546607.png" alt="Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on the U.S. Senate floor just before 10:30 p.m. Sunday night-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on the U.S. Senate floor just before 10:30 p.m. Sunday night-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House churned late into the night over a now nearly $2 trillion economic rescue package, as the coronavirus crisis deepened, the nation shut down and the first U.S. senator tested positive for the disease.As President Donald Trump took to the podium in the White House briefing room and promised to help Americans who feel afraid and isolated as the pandemic spreads, the Senate voted Sunday against advancing the rescue package. But talks continued on Capitol Hill.“I think you’ll get there. To me it’s not very complicated: We have to help the worker. We have to save the companies,” Trump said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WE CANNOT LET THE CURE BE WORSE THAN THE PROBLEM ITSELF. AT THE END OF THE 15 DAY PERIOD, WE WILL MAKE A DECISION AS TO WHICH WAY WE WANT TO GO!&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1241935285916782593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Later, the Republican president suggested the remedies may be more harmful than the outbreak, vowing to reassess after the 15-day mark of the shutdown. “WE CANNOT LET THE CURE BE WORSE THAN THE PROBLEM ITSELF,” he tweeted.Inside the otherwise emptied out Capitol, the draft aid bill was declared insufficient by Democrats, who argued it was tilted toward corporations and did too little to help workers and health care providers. Republicans returned to the negotiating table.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, exiting the Capitol just before midnight, struck an optimistic note: “We’re very close,” he said, adding negotiators would work through the night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our nation cannot afford this game of chicken. We cannot afford the cynical partisanship. This is a national emergency. Not a partisan opportunity. Doctors, nurses, small business employees, laid-off Americans, and vulnerable seniors need help right now. <a href="https://t.co/zXPqodt8ZI">pic.twitter.com/zXPqodt8ZI</a>&mdash; Leader McConnell (@senatemajldr) <a href="https://twitter.com/senatemajldr/status/1241929925923397634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Our nation cannot afford a game of chicken,” warned Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., his voice rising on the Senate floor Sunday night. His goal is to vote Monday. The Senate will re-convene at noon.Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y, sounded an optimistic note.“This bill is going to affect this country and the lives of Americans, not just for the next few days, but in the next few months and years — so we have to make sure it is good, he said. ‘”There were some serious problems with the bill leader McConnell laid down. Huge amounts of corporate bailout funds without restrictions or without oversight — you wouldn’t even know who is getting the money. Not enough money for hospitals, nurses, PPE, masks, all the health care needs. No money for state and local government, many of whom would go broke. Many other things.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I just spoke in the Senate about how we’re making progress on a bill. The McConnell-GOP bill includes huge bailouts without protections for people and workers and without accountability. It has shortfalls of money for our hospitals &amp; medical workers. This needs to be changed. <a href="https://t.co/7ggVKrwV6l">pic.twitter.com/7ggVKrwV6l</a>&mdash; Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer/status/1241943851708841984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>But Schumer said they were making progress in dealing with those issues. “We’re getting closer and closer. And I’m very hopeful, is how I’d put it, that we can get a bill in the morning.”With a population on edge and shell-shocked financial markets poised for the new work week, Washington labored under the size and scope of the rescue package that’s more ambitious than any in recent times — larger than the 2008 bank bailout and 2009 recovery act combined.Democrats say the largely GOP-led effort did not go far enough to provide health care and worker aid and fails to put restraints on a proposed $500 billion “slush fund” for corporations. They voted to block its advance.Democrats won a concession — to provide four months of expanded unemployment benefits, rather than just three as proposed, according to an official granted anonymity to discuss the private talks. The jobless pay also extends to self-employed and so-called gig workers.While the congressional leaders worked into the night, alarms were being sounded from coast to coast about the wave of coronavirus cases about to crash onto the nation’s health system.New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio had dire, urgent news from the pandemic’s U.S. epicenter: “April and May are going to be a lot worse,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”De Blasio, a Democrat, all but begged Washington to help procure ventilators and other medical supplies. He accused the Republican president of “not lifting a finger” to help.Trump urged Congress to get a deal done and, during the Sunday briefing, responded to criticism that his administration was sluggish to act. He cited his cooperation with the three states hardest hit — New York, Washington and California — and invoked a measure to give governors flexibility in calling up the national guard under their control, while the federal government covers the bill.But even as Trump stressed federal-local partnerships, some governors, including Republican Greg Abbott of Texas, expressed unhappiness with Washington’s response. The president himself took a swipe hours earlier at Gov. J. B. Pritzker, D-Ill., saying that he and “a very small group of certain other Governors, together with Fake News” should not be “blaming the Federal Government for their own shortcomings.”This came as Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky announced he tested positive for the coronavirus. Paul, who is a doctor and close ally of the president, said in a tweet he was not showing symptoms and was in quarantine.Paul was seen at a GOP senators’ lunch on Friday and swimming in the Senate gym pool on Sunday morning, heightening concerns. His office said he left the Senate immediately after learning his diagnosis.A growing list of lawmakers have cycled in and out of isolation after exposure, and two members of the House have said they tested positive. Five senators were in self-quarantine Sunday evening and could not vote.In recent days, Trump invoked the Defense Protection Act, a rarely used, decades-old authority that can be used to compel the private sector to manufacture needed medical supplies like masks and ventilators. Officials said Sunday that it would be used voluntarily and businesses would not be compelled to act.“We are a country not based on nationalizing our business,” said Trump, who has repeatedly railed against socialism overseas and among Democrats.Two days after he lashed out at a reporter who asked about his message to frightened Americans, Trump said, “For those worried and afraid, please know as long as I am your president, you can feel confident that you have a leader who will always fight for you.”But minutes later, when he learned that rival Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, was one of those in isolation, he declared, “Romney’s in isolation? Gee, that’s too bad.”Trump said he was not being sarcastic.The urgency to act is mounting, as jobless claims skyrocket and the financial markets are set to re-open Monday eager for signs that Washington can soften the blow of the healthcare crisis and what experts say is a looming recession. Stock futures declined sharply as Trump spoke Sunday evening.Officials late Sunday put the price tag of the ballooning rescue package at nearly $2 trillion. That does not include additional measures being taken by the Federal Reserve to shore up the economy.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who was leading a third day of nonstop talks on Capitol Hill, said the plan was meant to prop up the nation’s weakened economy for the next 10 to 12 weeks.Central to the package is as much as $350 billion for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home. There is also a one-time rebate check of about $1,200 per person, or $3,000 for a family of four, as well as the extended unemployment benefits.Hospitals, Mnuchin said, will get approximately $110 billion for the expected influx of sick patients.The treasury secretary said a significant part of the package will involve working with the Federal Reserve for up to $4 trillion of liquidity to support the economy with “broad-based lending programs.”But Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have pushed for add-ons, including food security aid, small business loans and other measures for workers.They warned the draft plan’s $500 billion for corporations does not put enough restraints on business, saying the ban on corporate stock buy-backs is weak and the limits on executive pay are only for two years.“We’re not here to create a slush fund for Donald Trump and his family, or a slush fund for the Treasury Department to be able to hand out to their friends,” said Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “We’re here to help workers, we’re here to help hospitals.”The president, when pressed by a reporter, dodged a question as to whether his own business would seek federal funds.With Sunday’s failed vote, McConnell angrily blamed Pelosi, who returned to Washington for a top-level meeting, saying she “poured cold water” over the draft plan. But any measure from the Senate also needs to pass the House.The details are coming from drafts of both bills circulating among lobbyists but not yet released to the public. They were obtained by The Associated Press.For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.WASHINGTON — The Senate has refused to advance the coronavirus rescue package in a procedural vote with Democrats rejecting a draft from Republicans and pushing for more aid for workers.Negotiations are expected to continue into the evening Sunday.Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has urged senators to “signal to the public that we're ready to get this job done.” He wants passage by Monday.But Democrats have resisted, arguing the nearly $1.4 trillion measure needs to bolster aid and put limits on how businesses can use the emergency dollars.More voting is possible.

Senate refuses to advance coronavirus rescue package

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending continuity of operations for licensed child care facilities at this time (centers, preschools, day care homes and school age programs, according to a media release from the agency on Sunday.

Child care facilities may accept new enrollees in accordance with the terms of their license.

However, depending on the unique and changing situations of each community, local public health officers may implement more restrictive guidance and provisions for child care facilities, up to and including closure within their authority and jurisdiction.

Child care providers should direct all questions to their local child care surveyor. Surveyors will coordinate efforts and communication with local public health officials to provide guidance based on the rapidly changing situation at the community level.

“We know this is a stressful time, and especially for families who rely on child care and those whose work circumstances are changing,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “There are a number of child care resources available to help you meet the needs of your family. We’re all in this together and will help families access the support they need.”

KDHE continues to accept and process applications for new child care facilities. Individuals interested in becoming a licensed provider are encouraged to contact their local licensing surveyor. Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fkidsnet&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157807643&amp;sdata=XFWO4eBCmPSydDeKRc9m9oAfsKKlz2TdmTtqVPXwDzU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE Child Care Licensing</a>&nbsp;website and click on&nbsp;Local County Contacts&nbsp;to find the surveyor in your area.

“Child care professionals provide a critical service in our state,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “They allow parents who are our doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters and more to respond to this pandemic. Child care facilities have very strict regulations regarding the number of children in the facility as well as health and safety guidelines that must continue to be met.”

For&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FFAQs_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157812623&amp;sdata=p%2BZLGbVUsvah8ecv8zpCuM%2BmX6JM4F1L9drVTXtHCJA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">FAQs</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FInterim_Guidance_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=WH3eIQwceoPy53RyIl8%2FAeWzaWa1aF2SNYv6RZzzsi8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;regarding child care operations during the pandemic, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=sl6hZt4vAFnIVCQLRHCcFwJr%2F06xNJOQP3Srg3dYw7c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a>&nbsp;website.

Options for families in need of child care

Many working families are facing challenges related to accessing healthy and safe child care during this time. We encourage everyone to assist with supporting families and communities as they work to develop creative solutions to meet the needs of working families.

<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ks.childcareaware.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157822576&amp;sdata=Bf4%2BRN5ssiXBIAAIi0o2ne9UKQy4Rj5E9yxFdSJR%2B2w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>&nbsp;provides assistance to families searching for licensed child care. They can be reached toll free at 877.678.2548.

KDHE has an&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fbcclr%2Fcapp.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157827553&amp;sdata=I1iyqyEvB2SnR9k5mUCtCYQmgjh7uGqQSf0YWGwJKYk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">online information system</a>&nbsp;that serves&nbsp;as a tool to support families in making informed child care choices and can be used to review compliance history of a current licensed provider. The online tool is an important step to verifying that a facility is licensed and provides compliance history for parents and guardians.

Families that need flexible options or irregular care might consider having someone come into the home. Relatives, older siblings, and friends or neighbors currently not working due to COVID-19 related business closures might be available to help.

Other options for families that need limited care include informal care arranged between friends/neighbors on an irregular basis&nbsp;or someone to provide care in their own home for no more than two children for not more than 20 hours week.&nbsp;None of these options require a license from KDHE.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending continuity of operations for licensed child care facilities at this time (centers, preschools, day care homes and school age programs, according to a media release from the agency on Sunday.Child care facilities may accept new enrollees in accordance with the terms of their license.However, depending on the unique and changing situations of each community, local public health officers may implement more restrictive guidance and provisions for child care facilities, up to and including closure within their authority and jurisdiction.Child care providers should direct all questions to their local child care surveyor. Surveyors will coordinate efforts and communication with local public health officials to provide guidance based on the rapidly changing situation at the community level.“We know this is a stressful time, and especially for families who rely on child care and those whose work circumstances are changing,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “There are a number of child care resources available to help you meet the needs of your family. We’re all in this together and will help families access the support they need.”KDHE continues to accept and process applications for new child care facilities. Individuals interested in becoming a licensed provider are encouraged to contact their local licensing surveyor. Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fkidsnet&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157807643&amp;sdata=XFWO4eBCmPSydDeKRc9m9oAfsKKlz2TdmTtqVPXwDzU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE Child Care Licensing</a>&nbsp;website and click on&nbsp;Local County Contacts&nbsp;to find the surveyor in your area.“Child care professionals provide a critical service in our state,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “They allow parents who are our doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters and more to respond to this pandemic. Child care facilities have very strict regulations regarding the number of children in the facility as well as health and safety guidelines that must continue to be met.”For&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FFAQs_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157812623&amp;sdata=p%2BZLGbVUsvah8ecv8zpCuM%2BmX6JM4F1L9drVTXtHCJA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">FAQs</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FInterim_Guidance_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=WH3eIQwceoPy53RyIl8%2FAeWzaWa1aF2SNYv6RZzzsi8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;regarding child care operations during the pandemic, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=sl6hZt4vAFnIVCQLRHCcFwJr%2F06xNJOQP3Srg3dYw7c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a>&nbsp;website.Options for families in need of child careMany working families are facing challenges related to accessing healthy and safe child care during this time. We encourage everyone to assist with supporting families and communities as they work to develop creative solutions to meet the needs of working families.<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ks.childcareaware.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157822576&amp;sdata=Bf4%2BRN5ssiXBIAAIi0o2ne9UKQy4Rj5E9yxFdSJR%2B2w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>&nbsp;provides assistance to families searching for licensed child care. They can be reached toll free at 877.678.2548.KDHE has an&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fbcclr%2Fcapp.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157827553&amp;sdata=I1iyqyEvB2SnR9k5mUCtCYQmgjh7uGqQSf0YWGwJKYk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">online information system</a>&nbsp;that serves&nbsp;as a tool to support families in making informed child care choices and can be used to review compliance history of a current licensed provider. The online tool is an important step to verifying that a facility is licensed and provides compliance history for parents and guardians.Families that need flexible options or irregular care might consider having someone come into the home. Relatives, older siblings, and friends or neighbors currently not working due to COVID-19 related business closures might be available to help.Other options for families that need limited care include informal care arranged between friends/neighbors on an irregular basis&nbsp;or someone to provide care in their own home for no more than two children for not more than 20 hours week.&nbsp;None of these options require a license from KDHE.

KDHE recommends child care facilities remain open

LAWRENCE&nbsp;– Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino on Sunday issued a “Stay at Home” order as the Douglas County community continues with efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.

<a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">Click here to read the full emergency order.</a>

Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and healthcare facilities will remain open, as residents are ordered to remain home except for essential needs.

This&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">order</a>&nbsp;matches recent ones issued in neighboring counties of the Kansas City area, including Johnson, Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties, and will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, to give residents and employers time on Monday to make preparations. The order is effective until April 23, unless otherwise amended.

“With full community cooperation, this proactive public health order can minimize the impact of COVID-19 on our Douglas County community,” Marcellino said.

Vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions must stay-at-home. All community members should stay at home except to perform essential duties for business continuity or government functions, to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care or perform activities related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this time.

It is all right to go outside for walks if you are not in a group and practice proper social distancing.

Some examples of “essential businesses” including:

The order does not prevent University of Kansas students from moving out of residence halls as they work through a process with KU Housing, and it also does not prevent employees for making a quick trip to get an item from their offices, if needed.

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health has worked closely on these decisions with numerous community partners, including Douglas County Government, City of Lawrence, Douglas County Emergency Management and LMH Health.

Douglas County residents can also stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/442/COVID-19-2019-Novel-Coronavirus">LDCHealth.org/Coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus-response-dgco.hub.arcgis.com/">douglascountyks.org/coronavirus</a>.

For general information, call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463, email COVID-19@ks.gov or call Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health’s Coronavirus line, 785-856-4343 or the LMH Health Coronavirus Line, 785-505-2819.

LAWRENCE&nbsp;– Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino on Sunday issued a “Stay at Home” order as the Douglas County community continues with efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. <a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">Click here to read the full emergency order.</a>Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and healthcare facilities will remain open, as residents are ordered to remain home except for essential needs.This&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">order</a>&nbsp;matches recent ones issued in neighboring counties of the Kansas City area, including Johnson, Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties, and will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, to give residents and employers time on Monday to make preparations. The order is effective until April 23, unless otherwise amended.“With full community cooperation, this proactive public health order can minimize the impact of COVID-19 on our Douglas County community,” Marcellino said.Vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions must stay-at-home. All community members should stay at home except to perform essential duties for business continuity or government functions, to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care or perform activities related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this time.It is all right to go outside for walks if you are not in a group and practice proper social distancing.Some examples of “essential businesses” including:<ol>
 <li>Healthcare operations, essential infrastructure and essential government functions.</li><li>Establishments engaged in the retail sale of canned food, dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh meats, fish, and poultry, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and any other household consumer products.</li><li>Businesses that provide food, shelter and social services, and other necessities of life for those economically disadvantaged.</li><li>Gas stations and auto-supply, auto-repair and servicing, emergency road services and related services and facilities.</li><li>Banks and related financial institutions.</li><li>Hardware stores.</li><li>Those who work in trades that provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation and essential operation of homes and essential operations or businesses.</li><li>Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers</li><li>Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food and beverages, but only for delivery or carry out and not for consumption on the premises.</li><li>Home-based care for seniors, adults or children.</li><li>Professional services, such as legal services, accounting services, real estate services, and insurance services.</li><li>Childcare facilities providing services that enable employees exempted in the order to work as permitted, given children are cared for in groups of 10 or fewer.</li><li>Mortuary, cremation and burial services.</li><li>Hotels and motels.</li><li>Manufacturing companies, distributors, and supply chain companies producing and supplying essential products and services.</li>
 </ol>The order does not prevent University of Kansas students from moving out of residence halls as they work through a process with KU Housing, and it also does not prevent employees for making a quick trip to get an item from their offices, if needed.Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health has worked closely on these decisions with numerous community partners, including Douglas County Government, City of Lawrence, Douglas County Emergency Management and LMH Health.Douglas County residents can also stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/442/COVID-19-2019-Novel-Coronavirus">LDCHealth.org/Coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus-response-dgco.hub.arcgis.com/">douglascountyks.org/coronavirus</a>.For general information, call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463, email COVID-19@ks.gov or call Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health’s Coronavirus line, 785-856-4343 or the LMH Health Coronavirus Line, 785-505-2819.

Lawrence, Douglas Co. join Kansas City with stay-at-home order

WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House are teetering on a nearly $1.4 trillion economic rescue package as the coronavirus pandemic deepens. No final decisions have been made. But the emerging package is expected to include

The measure would provide a quick, one-time stipend of about $1,200 per individual, $2,400 for couples, and $3,000 for family of four. The money would cut off at higher income levels.

An estimated $350 billion would be provided for small businesses to keep making payroll. Companies with 500 or fewer employees could tap up to $10 million in forgivable small business loans to keep paychecks flowing.

Workers who are eligible would receive up to 39 weeks of unemployment insurance through the end of 2020 if they are sidelined by the outbreak. The coverage would be retroactive to Jan. 27.

The bill includes an additional $242 billion in additional emergency funds to fight the virus and shore up for safety net programs. That includes money for food stamps, child nutrition, hospitals, the Centers for Disease Control and public health and transportation agencies.

The measure includes $15.6 billion to augment the food stamp program, which helps feed around 40 million Low income people per year. It’s annual budget is around $70 billion.

The initial GOP plan called for $208 billion in loans to airlines and other industries, which would have to be repaid. Leaders are still negotiating the final number and how the money would be provided by the administration.

Negotiators are still hammering out whether there will be money give to the states, whose governors have requested billions to shore up their budgets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584913591839.png" alt="Sunday morning,&nbsp;U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell hosted a meeting with congressional leadership and Treasury Secretary Mnuchin. "It is time to come together, finalize the results of our bipartisan discussions, and get the CARES Act to the President’s desk.." photo courtesy Sen. McConnell" />
 <figcaption>Sunday morning,&nbsp;U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell hosted a meeting with congressional leadership and Treasury Secretary Mnuchin. "It is time to come together, finalize the results of our bipartisan discussions, and get the CARES Act to the President’s desk.." photo courtesy Sen. McConnell</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House are teetering on a nearly $1.4 trillion economic rescue package as the coronavirus pandemic deepens. No final decisions have been made. But the emerging package is expected to includeOne-time checks to AmericansThe measure would provide a quick, one-time stipend of about $1,200 per individual, $2,400 for couples, and $3,000 for family of four. The money would cut off at higher income levels.___Paycheck supportAn estimated $350 billion would be provided for small businesses to keep making payroll. Companies with 500 or fewer employees could tap up to $10 million in forgivable small business loans to keep paychecks flowing.___Unemployment expansionWorkers who are eligible would receive up to 39 weeks of unemployment insurance through the end of 2020 if they are sidelined by the outbreak. The coverage would be retroactive to Jan. 27.___Emergency funding, public healthThe bill includes an additional $242 billion in additional emergency funds to fight the virus and shore up for safety net programs. That includes money for food stamps, child nutrition, hospitals, the Centers for Disease Control and public health and transportation agencies.The measure includes $15.6 billion to augment the food stamp program, which helps feed around 40 million Low income people per year. It’s annual budget is around $70 billion.___Industry aidThe initial GOP plan called for $208 billion in loans to airlines and other industries, which would have to be repaid. Leaders are still negotiating the final number and how the money would be provided by the administration.___State aidNegotiators are still hammering out whether there will be money give to the states, whose governors have requested billions to shore up their budgets.

At a glance: Nearly $1.4 trillion coronavirus rescue package

NEW YORK (AP) — As in-person worship services are canceled or downsized amid the coronavirus outbreak, some churches across the U.S. are bracing for a painful drop in weekly contributions and possible cutbacks in programs and staff.

One church leader, Bishop Paul Egensteiner of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Metropolitan New York Synod, said some of the 190 churches in his region were unlikely to survive because of a two-pronged financial hit. Their offerings are dwindling, and they are losing income from tenants such as preschools which can no longer afford to rent church venues.

“As much as I’d like to help them, everybody's reserves are taking a hit because of the stock market,” Egensteiner said,

At Friendship Baptist Church in Baltimore, a mostly African American congregation of about 1,100, the Rev. Alvin Gwynn Sr. bucked the cancellation trend by holding services last Sunday. But attendance was down by about 50%, and Gwynn said the day’s offering netted about $5,000 compared to a normal intake of about $15,000.

“It cuts into our ministry,” he said. “If this keeps up, we can’t fund all our outreach to help other people.”

There was a brighter outcome at the Church of the Resurrection, a large United Methodist Church congregation that operates out of five locations in the Kansas City area.

Cathy Bien, the church’s communications director, said about 25,700 people logged in to join online worship last Sunday after in-person services were canceled. That compared to normal Sunday participation of 14,000 worshippers -– 8,000 in person and 6,000 online.

“It blew our minds,” Bien said. “They were coming from all over the country -– a lot of Methodists from other churches.”

The huge turnout didn’t translate into a larger than normal offering, although the church is still processing checks that were sent by some of the worshippers, Bien said. She expressed hope that financial support will remain robust as the church stresses the need to bolster food pantries and other community programs in the face of COVID-19.

t Trinity Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville, Virginia, giving was down modestly last weekend as the church cancelled in-person worship and made the service available online.

The pastor, Walter Kim, said some of his roughly 1,000 congregants have grown accustomed to online giving in recent years, but many worshippers still give in person at the services - an option not available for now.

“We’ll be asking them to sign up (for online giving) or mail a check,” said Kim. He will be urging congregants to bolster the church’s “mercy fund” for use assisting hard-up members of the community as job losses multiply.

In addition to his pastoral duties Kim is president of the National Association of Evangelicals, which represents more than 45,000 evangelical churches. The NAE will be co-hosting a two-day digital summit next week featuring videos from church leaders advising other pastors nationwide how to respond creatively and effectively to the virus outbreak.

The co-host is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wheaton.edu/academics/academic-centers/humanitarian-disaster-institute/covid-19/" target="_blank">Humanitarian Disaster Institute</a>&nbsp;at Wheaton College in Illinois, which already has offered resources to churches in response to COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584278183206.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — As in-person worship services are canceled or downsized amid the coronavirus outbreak, some churches across the U.S. are bracing for a painful drop in weekly contributions and possible cutbacks in programs and staff.One church leader, Bishop Paul Egensteiner of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Metropolitan New York Synod, said some of the 190 churches in his region were unlikely to survive because of a two-pronged financial hit. Their offerings are dwindling, and they are losing income from tenants such as preschools which can no longer afford to rent church venues.“As much as I’d like to help them, everybody's reserves are taking a hit because of the stock market,” Egensteiner said,At Friendship Baptist Church in Baltimore, a mostly African American congregation of about 1,100, the Rev. Alvin Gwynn Sr. bucked the cancellation trend by holding services last Sunday. But attendance was down by about 50%, and Gwynn said the day’s offering netted about $5,000 compared to a normal intake of about $15,000.“It cuts into our ministry,” he said. “If this keeps up, we can’t fund all our outreach to help other people.”There was a brighter outcome at the Church of the Resurrection, a large United Methodist Church congregation that operates out of five locations in the Kansas City area.Cathy Bien, the church’s communications director, said about 25,700 people logged in to join online worship last Sunday after in-person services were canceled. That compared to normal Sunday participation of 14,000 worshippers -– 8,000 in person and 6,000 online.“It blew our minds,” Bien said. “They were coming from all over the country -– a lot of Methodists from other churches.”The huge turnout didn’t translate into a larger than normal offering, although the church is still processing checks that were sent by some of the worshippers, Bien said. She expressed hope that financial support will remain robust as the church stresses the need to bolster food pantries and other community programs in the face of COVID-19.t Trinity Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville, Virginia, giving was down modestly last weekend as the church cancelled in-person worship and made the service available online.The pastor, Walter Kim, said some of his roughly 1,000 congregants have grown accustomed to online giving in recent years, but many worshippers still give in person at the services - an option not available for now.“We’ll be asking them to sign up (for online giving) or mail a check,” said Kim. He will be urging congregants to bolster the church’s “mercy fund” for use assisting hard-up members of the community as job losses multiply.In addition to his pastoral duties Kim is president of the National Association of Evangelicals, which represents more than 45,000 evangelical churches. The NAE will be co-hosting a two-day digital summit next week featuring videos from church leaders advising other pastors nationwide how to respond creatively and effectively to the virus outbreak.The co-host is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wheaton.edu/academics/academic-centers/humanitarian-disaster-institute/covid-19/" target="_blank">Humanitarian Disaster Institute</a>&nbsp;at Wheaton College in Illinois, which already has offered resources to churches in response to COVID-19.“Some changes are going to be required,” Kim said. “The church is a very creative institution. In the end it will find ways of fulfilling its mission.”In Western Massachusetts, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield has indefinitely cancelled all public Masses, and recently rescinded permission for parishioners to pray individually at their churches.Funeral Masses were still allowed with a maximum attendance of 25; the diocese said the times of those Masses were not to be shared in the media,“Lack of access to the churches and Eucharist is particularly difficult for many older parishioners whose entire daily routine is built around getting up, out of the house, and going to Mass,” said the Rev. Mark Stelzer, who has served in the diocese as a parish priest and college chaplain.The Rev. William Tourigny, pastor of Ste. Rose de Lima Church in Chicopee, Massachusetts, said his parish had a solid financial foundation and expected it could maintain all programs and staff payroll for the time being.“For smaller faith-based communities with little or no reserved funds, difficult decisions will need to be made,” he said.Joe Wright, executive director of the Bivocational and Small Church Leadership Network in Nashville said many pastors in the network have been holding regular in-person services, while monitoring the spread of the virus.“Once the coronavirus rises to the level where it starts hitting smaller groups, then we’ll see even the smaller groups back away and seek ways to gather, probably electronically,” he said.When that happens, Wright said, financial giving will depend on the church, especially the age of the congregations.“Some churches with older congregations do not give electronically so the transition to that will be a little bit harder,” he said.Ron Klassen, executive director of Rural Home Missionary Association, said it’s too early to say how the rural churches he represents are being impacted."My sense is that in the past, people rise up and, if anything, the giving might increase,” he said. “People are going to give. They’ll take care of their church and their community.”In Baltimore, pastor Gwynn worries that tensions might rise past the point that church outreach programs can help.“With all the uncertainty, I’m afraid this could turn into anarchy,” he said. “Not everybody’s patient. Not everybody’s law abiding.”He even envisioned the possibility of a stampede toward the goods being doled out after church’s annual food drive.“My biggest fear right now is what's happening to the minds of our people,” Gwynn said. “How long can we hold them together?’___

Coronavirus Update