Today’s update includes the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force predicting an upcoming surge in COVID-19 cases. Additionally, the update discusses Missouri lawmakers heading back to the capitol in an effort to finalize an emergency aid package.
HEALTH
- St. Louis Metropolitan hospitals have teamed up to create a COVID-19 task force called the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force. Dr. Alex Garza, who is the head of the task force, is expecting the number of COVID-19 cases in the area to peak in two or three weeks. Garza made clear that “[w]e have every reason to believe that the surge is still coming” and the best solution is to continue working to stop the spread by continuing the social isolation, social distancing, and maintaining good hygiene and clean environments. For more information on the task force and their mission, visit https://www.kmov.com/news/local-hospitals-team-up-to-form-the-st-louis-metropolitan-pandemic-task-force/article_47f7aedc-760f-11ea-b4de-4b0898ebcf3a.html.
FUNDING
- Tuesday morning is expected to bring lawmakers in Missouri together at the capitol to debate a massive and unprecedented emergency aid package as a response to the global pandemic. While Governor Parson is expecting federal funding, the emergency aid package is expected to be much larger. In an effort to prevent further spread of the virus among lawmakers, the session will be handled in a different manner. While many are reluctant to go back to the capital to vote, they are also aware a decision on this package needs to be made. For more information on the emergency aid package, and the discussion between lawmakers, visit https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/with-emergency-aid-package-on-the-line-missouri-lawmakers-return-tuesday-to-capitol/article_8d5daa5c-dba9-529a-9549-a70e825692b5.html.
HeplerBroom attorney Emilee M. Bramstedt contributed to this blog post.