NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Three new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Lincoln County, according to the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD).

The first case is a female in her 50s actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.

The second case is a female in her 70s. This case is under investigation.

The third case is a male in his 60s actively isolating at home. The contact type of this case is under investigation.

There have been 88 total confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the WCDHD jurisdiction since March with 65 of those cases reported as recovered.&nbsp;

There are currently 21 active cases in the jurisdiction which includes Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker, and Arthur Counties.

WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR02SpQAUhvVGnjMt9jSYkAKP77qpjsDbzKB8PVqviT2ug3CaIvQl3jd6YE#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Three new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Lincoln County, according to the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD).According to WCDHD:The first case is a female in her 50s actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.The second case is a female in her 70s. This case is under investigation.The third case is a male in his 60s actively isolating at home. The contact type of this case is under investigation.There have been 88 total confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the WCDHD jurisdiction since March with 65 of those cases reported as recovered.&nbsp;There are currently 21 active cases in the jurisdiction which includes Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker, and Arthur Counties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595981503855.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR02SpQAUhvVGnjMt9jSYkAKP77qpjsDbzKB8PVqviT2ug3CaIvQl3jd6YE#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

WCDHD: 3 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Lincoln County on Tuesday

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The latest health statistics for Nebraska show the state approaching 25,000 confirmed coronavirus cases.

The state's online virus tracker on Monday showed 800 cases were confirmed Friday through Sunday, bringing the state's total to 24,618 since the outbreak began. That included 356 cases confirmed on Friday, 221 on Saturday and 223 on Sunday.

The site showed no new deaths from the virus recorded over the weekend, leaving the state's total deaths at 316.

Room for new patients within the state's hospitals remained fairly steady. The tracker showed 38% of the state's hospital beds available Monday, 42% of intensive care unit beds available and 81% of the state's ventilators available.

The latest numbers came as state prison officials announced Sunday that a staffer at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln had tested positive for the virus. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release that the infected staffer is self-isolating at home.

The latest case brings to 38 the number of prison staffers across the state to become infected; 24 of them have since recovered, officials said.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The latest health statistics for Nebraska show the state approaching 25,000 confirmed coronavirus cases.The state's online virus tracker on Monday showed 800 cases were confirmed Friday through Sunday, bringing the state's total to 24,618 since the outbreak began. That included 356 cases confirmed on Friday, 221 on Saturday and 223 on Sunday.The site showed no new deaths from the virus recorded over the weekend, leaving the state's total deaths at 316.Room for new patients within the state's hospitals remained fairly steady. The tracker showed 38% of the state's hospital beds available Monday, 42% of intensive care unit beds available and 81% of the state's ventilators available.The latest numbers came as state prison officials announced Sunday that a staffer at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln had tested positive for the virus. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release that the infected staffer is self-isolating at home.The latest case brings to 38 the number of prison staffers across the state to become infected; 24 of them have since recovered, officials said.

Nebraska approaching 25,000 confirmed coronavirus cases

Video provided by Governor Ricketts Office

Governor Pete Ricketts addressed the Nebraska Legislature on July 24...

Video provided by Governor Ricketts OfficeGovernor Pete Ricketts addressed the Nebraska Legislature on July 24...<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C7zM0-c6TJE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥 Governor Ricketts address to the Nebraska Legislature

WASHINGTON (AP) — Suggesting a narrower&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">pandemic&nbsp;</a>relief package may be all that’s possible, the White House still pushed ahead with Monday’s planned rollout of the Senate Republicans’ $1 trillion effort as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi assailed the GOP “disarray” as time-wasting during the crisis.

The administration’s chief negotiators — White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin — spent the weekend on Capitol Hill to put what Meadows described as “final touches” on the relief bill Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is expected to bring forward Monday afternoon.

“We’re done,” Mnuchin said as he and Meadows left Capitol Hill on Sunday after meeting with GOP staff.

But looming deadlines may force them to consider other options. By Friday, millions of out-of-work Americans will lose an $600 federal unemployment benefit that is expiring and federal eviction protections for many renters are also coming to an end. President Donald Trump’s standing is at one of the lowest points of his term, according to a new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/43a096bc2bcf376de04b696c5143ee99">AP-NORC poll</a>.

“They’re in disarray and that delay is causing suffering for America’s families,” Pelosi said.

Pelosi panned the Trump administration’s desire to trim the $600 weekly unemployment boost to about 70% of pre-pandemic wages. She also said she opposes tackling a relief package in piecemeal fashion.

With the virus death toll climbing and 4.2 million infections nationwide, the administration officials converged on the Capitol to revive the Republican package that unraveled last week. Republican senators and the White House are at odds over various items, including how to cutback the jobless benefit without fully doing away with it.

Meadows said as the White House was “looking for clarity” on a “handful” of remaining issues with Republicans, but they had yet to talk to McConnell. “We have an agreement in principle,” he said.

Both Mnuchin and Meadows said earlier Sunday that narrower legislation might need to be passed first to ensure that enhanced unemployment benefits don’t run out for millions of Americans. They cited unemployment benefits, money to help schools reopen, tax credits to keep people from losing their jobs, and lawsuit protections for schools and businesses as priorities.

“We can move very quickly with the Democrats on these issues,” Mnuchin said.

But negotiations with Democrats have yet to begin with billions at stake and deadlines near.

Separately, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said a federal eviction moratorium on millions of rental units, due to expire at the end of the month, will be extended. “We will lengthen it,” he said, without specifying for how long.

On the jobless benefits, Republicans have argued that federal jobless benefits should be trimmed because the combination of state and federal unemployment assistance left many people better off financially than they were before the pandemic and therefore disinclined to return to their jobs.

Many Democrats contend that a lot of people don’t feel safe going back to work when the coronavirus is surging again around the country.

Meadows, a former congressman who was the head of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, said he is working with Mnuchin and Labor Secretary Eugene Scalia to address complaints that outdated state computer systems will make it difficult for the jobless to get their benefits in a timely fashion if the formula is changed.

“It’s our goal to make sure that it’s not antiquated computers that keep people from getting their benefits,” Meadows said.

Pelosi criticized the hold-up on the GOP side. House Democrats passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/:%20https://apnews.com/55887a1d2b734020c8dae29004f087d6" target="_blank">$3 trillion relief package&nbsp;</a>a couple of months ago, with the aim of jump-starting negotiations.

The White House and Senate Republicans were racing to regroup after plans to introduce a $1 trillion virus rescue bill collapsed Thursday during GOP infighting over its size, scope and details.

It was expected to bring $105 billion to help schools reopen, new money for virus testing and benefits for businesses, including a fresh round of loans, tax breaks and a sweeping liability shield from COVID-19-related lawsuits.

The expiration of the $600 weekly jobless benefits boost had been propelling the Republicans to act, bracing to prevent social and economic fallout.

The White House floated plans to cut the additional aid back to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4965723ba65a47582f384c185680a29c">$100 a week</a>, while Senate Republicans preferred $200, with general GOP agreement about phasing out the flat boost in favor of one that ensures no more than 70% of an employee’s previous pay.

Apart from jobless benefits, Mnuchin said Saturday that new $1,200 direct payments would be based on the same formula from the earlier aid bill. Then, people making $75,000 or less received the full amount and those making more than $75,000 received less, depending on their income. People earning above $100,000 did not qualify for the payment.

The jobless benefit officially expires July 31, but due to the way states process unemployment payments, the cutoff was effectively Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595844870529.png" alt="Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows following their meetings on Sunday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows following their meetings on Sunday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Suggesting a narrower&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">pandemic&nbsp;</a>relief package may be all that’s possible, the White House still pushed ahead with Monday’s planned rollout of the Senate Republicans’ $1 trillion effort as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi assailed the GOP “disarray” as time-wasting during the crisis.The administration’s chief negotiators — White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin — spent the weekend on Capitol Hill to put what Meadows described as “final touches” on the relief bill Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is expected to bring forward Monday afternoon.“We’re done,” Mnuchin said as he and Meadows left Capitol Hill on Sunday after meeting with GOP staff.But looming deadlines may force them to consider other options. By Friday, millions of out-of-work Americans will lose an $600 federal unemployment benefit that is expiring and federal eviction protections for many renters are also coming to an end. President Donald Trump’s standing is at one of the lowest points of his term, according to a new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/43a096bc2bcf376de04b696c5143ee99">AP-NORC poll</a>.“They’re in disarray and that delay is causing suffering for America’s families,” Pelosi said.Pelosi panned the Trump administration’s desire to trim the $600 weekly unemployment boost to about 70% of pre-pandemic wages. She also said she opposes tackling a relief package in piecemeal fashion.With the virus death toll climbing and 4.2 million infections nationwide, the administration officials converged on the Capitol to revive the Republican package that unraveled last week. Republican senators and the White House are at odds over various items, including how to cutback the jobless benefit without fully doing away with it.Meadows said as the White House was “looking for clarity” on a “handful” of remaining issues with Republicans, but they had yet to talk to McConnell. “We have an agreement in principle,” he said.Both Mnuchin and Meadows said earlier Sunday that narrower legislation might need to be passed first to ensure that enhanced unemployment benefits don’t run out for millions of Americans. They cited unemployment benefits, money to help schools reopen, tax credits to keep people from losing their jobs, and lawsuit protections for schools and businesses as priorities.“We can move very quickly with the Democrats on these issues,” Mnuchin said.But negotiations with Democrats have yet to begin with billions at stake and deadlines near.Separately, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said a federal eviction moratorium on millions of rental units, due to expire at the end of the month, will be extended. “We will lengthen it,” he said, without specifying for how long.On the jobless benefits, Republicans have argued that federal jobless benefits should be trimmed because the combination of state and federal unemployment assistance left many people better off financially than they were before the pandemic and therefore disinclined to return to their jobs.Many Democrats contend that a lot of people don’t feel safe going back to work when the coronavirus is surging again around the country.Meadows, a former congressman who was the head of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, said he is working with Mnuchin and Labor Secretary Eugene Scalia to address complaints that outdated state computer systems will make it difficult for the jobless to get their benefits in a timely fashion if the formula is changed.“It’s our goal to make sure that it’s not antiquated computers that keep people from getting their benefits,” Meadows said.Pelosi criticized the hold-up on the GOP side. House Democrats passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/:%20https://apnews.com/55887a1d2b734020c8dae29004f087d6" target="_blank">$3 trillion relief package&nbsp;</a>a couple of months ago, with the aim of jump-starting negotiations.The White House and Senate Republicans were racing to regroup after plans to introduce a $1 trillion virus rescue bill collapsed Thursday during GOP infighting over its size, scope and details.It was expected to bring $105 billion to help schools reopen, new money for virus testing and benefits for businesses, including a fresh round of loans, tax breaks and a sweeping liability shield from COVID-19-related lawsuits.The expiration of the $600 weekly jobless benefits boost had been propelling the Republicans to act, bracing to prevent social and economic fallout.The White House floated plans to cut the additional aid back to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4965723ba65a47582f384c185680a29c">$100 a week</a>, while Senate Republicans preferred $200, with general GOP agreement about phasing out the flat boost in favor of one that ensures no more than 70% of an employee’s previous pay.Apart from jobless benefits, Mnuchin said Saturday that new $1,200 direct payments would be based on the same formula from the earlier aid bill. Then, people making $75,000 or less received the full amount and those making more than $75,000 received less, depending on their income. People earning above $100,000 did not qualify for the payment.The jobless benefit officially expires July 31, but due to the way states process unemployment payments, the cutoff was effectively Saturday.___

Extra unemployment aid expires, federal eviction moratorium to end

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Departement (WCDHD) four new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County over the weekend.

On Saturday, WCDHD reported three new cases in Lincoln County:

The first case is a female in her 20s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation.

The second case is a male in his 30s actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.

The third case is a male under the age of 18 actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.

On Sunday, officials reported one more confirmed case of the virus in Lincoln County:

This case is a female under the age of 18 actively isolating at home. This case is considered a close contact.

WCDHD has reported 84 total cases in their jurisdiction since March, with 64 of those cases being reported as recovered and two deaths.

As on Sunday evening, 4, 832 people have been tested in the WCDHD jurisdiction.

WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3CWNfoU4cV05MVlTcSeNFD1UZ1ZHaMugPKPZwVaMQ2tkaqRqPa-JGxwhg#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Departement (WCDHD) four new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County over the weekend.On Saturday, WCDHD reported three new cases in Lincoln County:The first case is a female in her 20s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation.The second case is a male in his 30s actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.The third case is a male under the age of 18 actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.On Sunday, officials reported one more confirmed case of the virus in Lincoln County:This case is a female under the age of 18 actively isolating at home. This case is considered a close contact.WCDHD has reported 84 total cases in their jurisdiction since March, with 64 of those cases being reported as recovered and two deaths.As on Sunday evening, 4, 832 people have been tested in the WCDHD jurisdiction.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595811311911.png" alt="covid update july 26 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update july 26 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3CWNfoU4cV05MVlTcSeNFD1UZ1ZHaMugPKPZwVaMQ2tkaqRqPa-JGxwhg#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

Health officials report 4 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County over the weekend

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska continues to see high numbers of coronavirus cases, according to state health figures, as the state's prison system reported four additional staffers testing positive for the virus.

The Lincoln Correctional Center, Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln, Omaha Correctional Center and the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln each reported a staffer testing positive for the virus, according to a news release late Thursday from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. All four were self-isolating at home, officials said. The announcement brings the total number of prison employees across the state to be infected with the virus to 37.

The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;shows 332 cases were confirmed on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 23,818 since the outbreak began. Another five deaths from COVID-19 - the disease caused by the virus - also were recorded Thursday. So far, 316 Nebraskans have died from the virus.

Nebraska's hospitals also showed signs of being affected by the rising case numbers. The tracker showed 34% of the state's hospital intensive care unit beds available Friday, a drop of four percentage points since Monday. Available ICU beds also dropped to 35% from Monday's 42%. The state's availability of ventilators remained steady at 80%.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska continues to see high numbers of coronavirus cases, according to state health figures, as the state's prison system reported four additional staffers testing positive for the virus.The Lincoln Correctional Center, Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln, Omaha Correctional Center and the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln each reported a staffer testing positive for the virus, according to a news release late Thursday from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. All four were self-isolating at home, officials said. The announcement brings the total number of prison employees across the state to be infected with the virus to 37.The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;shows 332 cases were confirmed on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 23,818 since the outbreak began. Another five deaths from COVID-19 - the disease caused by the virus - also were recorded Thursday. So far, 316 Nebraskans have died from the virus.Nebraska's hospitals also showed signs of being affected by the rising case numbers. The tracker showed 34% of the state's hospital intensive care unit beds available Friday, a drop of four percentage points since Monday. Available ICU beds also dropped to 35% from Monday's 42%. The state's availability of ventilators remained steady at 80%.

Nebraska sees continued high virus counts, more deaths

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts touted Nebraska's pandemic response and rosier-than-expected revenue outlook in his address to the Legislature on Friday, while pushing for lawmakers to adopt his signature property tax relief and tax incentives packages within the remaining 13 days of the session.

"Just as Nebraskans have stepped up to the challenge as we work through this pandemic, we've got to work to get Nebraska's economy thriving," Ricketts said.

The Republican governor made a rare second address within the same session, which was suspended in March over fears of spreading the COVID-19 virus. The session&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/659b2f3a271aac20724e3b83489f1e11" target="_blank">resumed&nbsp;</a>Monday.

The governor's address came a day after the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/51304d29bad8fb8608c93e8989a8b154" target="_blank">predicted&nbsp;</a>that while the state's tax revenue will likely dip below earlier projections because of the pandemic, the budget picture won't be as bad as previously expected.

Ricketts used that forecast to again push for lawmakers to lower property taxes and approve new tax incentives for businesses. The property tax measure would pump millions of state dollars into local school districts while putting new restrictions on how those districts can generate revenue through local property taxes. The business incentives bill would replace an existing program for businesses that's set to expire at the end of this year.

But the plan is not without its detractors, including Nebraska's public schools, which fear being shortchanged by the plan. Sen. John Stinner, chairman of the budget-writing Appropriations Committee, said this week that he plans to take a cautious approach to the rosy revenue predictions given this week.

Ricketts also urged lawmakers to push through a bill intended to attract millions in funding to the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a proposal to exempt as much as half of military retirement benefits from the state income tax.

By MARGERY A. BECK-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts touted Nebraska's pandemic response and rosier-than-expected revenue outlook in his address to the Legislature on Friday, while pushing for lawmakers to adopt his signature property tax relief and tax incentives packages within the remaining 13 days of the session."Just as Nebraskans have stepped up to the challenge as we work through this pandemic, we've got to work to get Nebraska's economy thriving," Ricketts said.The Republican governor made a rare second address within the same session, which was suspended in March over fears of spreading the COVID-19 virus. The session&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/659b2f3a271aac20724e3b83489f1e11" target="_blank">resumed&nbsp;</a>Monday.The governor's address came a day after the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/51304d29bad8fb8608c93e8989a8b154" target="_blank">predicted&nbsp;</a>that while the state's tax revenue will likely dip below earlier projections because of the pandemic, the budget picture won't be as bad as previously expected.Ricketts used that forecast to again push for lawmakers to lower property taxes and approve new tax incentives for businesses. The property tax measure would pump millions of state dollars into local school districts while putting new restrictions on how those districts can generate revenue through local property taxes. The business incentives bill would replace an existing program for businesses that's set to expire at the end of this year.But the plan is not without its detractors, including Nebraska's public schools, which fear being shortchanged by the plan. Sen. John Stinner, chairman of the budget-writing Appropriations Committee, said this week that he plans to take a cautious approach to the rosy revenue predictions given this week.Ricketts also urged lawmakers to push through a bill intended to attract millions in funding to the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a proposal to exempt as much as half of military retirement benefits from the state income tax.

Ricketts touts revenue, virus response in legislative speech

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported three new positive cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Thursday.

The first case is a male in his 40s actively isolating at home. This case is travel related.

The third case is a male 40s actively isolating at home. This case is travel related.

WCDHD serves&nbsp; Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker and Arthur Counties.

WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR19RR-Sx89yhmyhfh_o7kEIo8L7flRHJeU-1hxqzTyhZwyRjQs9e40eJCw#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported three new positive cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Thursday.The first case is a male in his 40s actively isolating at home. This case is travel related.The second case is a male in his 30s actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.The third case is a male 40s actively isolating at home. This case is travel related.WCDHD serves&nbsp; Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker and Arthur Counties.WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR19RR-Sx89yhmyhfh_o7kEIo8L7flRHJeU-1hxqzTyhZwyRjQs9e40eJCw#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595552061112.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three new positive cases of COVID-19 reported in Lincoln County on Thursday

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - State health numbers show cases of confirmed coronavirus continued this week to pile up in Nebraska.

On Thursday, the state Department of Health and Human Services'&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;showed 296 cases were confirmed the day before, bringing the state's total to 23,486. The site also showed an additional COVID-19 death on Wednesday, bringing the state's total to 311 since the outbreak began.

Nebraska's hospitals also showed signs of being affected by the recent increases, with 36% of the state's hospital intensive care unit beds available Thursday, compared with 42% availability on Monday. However, the state's availability of ventilators improved to 81%, compared with 78% on Monday.

The rising numbers came as a state high school band association canceled an annual fall marching band contest for fear of exposing students and staff to the virus. The Nebraska State Bandmasters Association announced Wednesday it was canceling the State Marching Contest and Festival, which had been set for Oct. 24 across several sites in Kearney, Lincoln and Omaha.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583198146602.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - State health numbers show cases of confirmed coronavirus continued this week to pile up in Nebraska.On Thursday, the state Department of Health and Human Services'&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;showed 296 cases were confirmed the day before, bringing the state's total to 23,486. The site also showed an additional COVID-19 death on Wednesday, bringing the state's total to 311 since the outbreak began.Nebraska's hospitals also showed signs of being affected by the recent increases, with 36% of the state's hospital intensive care unit beds available Thursday, compared with 42% availability on Monday. However, the state's availability of ventilators improved to 81%, compared with 78% on Monday.The rising numbers came as a state high school band association canceled an annual fall marching band contest for fear of exposing students and staff to the virus. The Nebraska State Bandmasters Association announced Wednesday it was canceling the State Marching Contest and Festival, which had been set for Oct. 24 across several sites in Kearney, Lincoln and Omaha.

Nebraska's confirmed virus cases continue to pour in

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Two University of Nebraska campuses in Omaha have announced they will lay off a total of nine people and let about 16 vacant positions go unfilled as the university system looks to cut $43 million from its budget over the next three years.

That news was announced Wednesday by Dr. Jeffrey Gold, chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, the Omaha World-Herald reported.

Gold said in all, 63 jobs will be affected at the two campuses by the budget cuts, but that about a quarter of those are vacancies that will go unfilled. More than half are employees who will simply be paid from a different funding source, such as federal grants, Gold said.

Doug Ewald, UNO's vice chancellor for business, finance and business development, said six of the position cuts will be seen at UNO and three at UNMC. UNO faces a $6.3 million in budget cuts over the next three years, while UNMC faces a $6.6 million cut for the same period.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Two University of Nebraska campuses in Omaha have announced they will lay off a total of nine people and let about 16 vacant positions go unfilled as the university system looks to cut $43 million from its budget over the next three years.That news was announced Wednesday by Dr. Jeffrey Gold, chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, the Omaha World-Herald reported.Gold said in all, 63 jobs will be affected at the two campuses by the budget cuts, but that about a quarter of those are vacancies that will go unfilled. More than half are employees who will simply be paid from a different funding source, such as federal grants, Gold said.Doug Ewald, UNO's vice chancellor for business, finance and business development, said six of the position cuts will be seen at UNO and three at UNMC. UNO faces a $6.3 million in budget cuts over the next three years, while UNMC faces a $6.6 million cut for the same period.

NU Omaha campuses to lay off 9 in budget-cutting effort

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has seen a surge of people testing positive for coronavirus this week, according to state health officials.

The state health department's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday showed more than 600 new cases of the virus since the beginning of the week, including 264 cases on Monday and 343 on Tuesday. The state's total stood at 23,190 by Wednesday. The site also shows nine COVID-19 deaths so far this week, bringing the state's total to 310 since the outbreak began.

The increases come as at least one Omaha-area health system reported a testing policy change in the face of testing supply shortages. CHI Health announced Tuesday it would suspend its policy of testing patients for the virus ahead of elective procedures.

The system said Abbott Laboratories, which manufactures the supplies CHI Health uses for coronavirus testing, can't meet current demand for the supplies and informed CHI that it would limit shipment of those supplies over then next four to five weeks.

"By suspending pre-procedural tests, we are able to preserve tests for people experiencing symptoms in the communities we serve," CHI Health said in a news release.

CHI Health centers will continue to perform elective surgeries, despite the suspension in pre-procedure testing.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has seen a surge of people testing positive for coronavirus this week, according to state health officials.The state health department's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday showed more than 600 new cases of the virus since the beginning of the week, including 264 cases on Monday and 343 on Tuesday. The state's total stood at 23,190 by Wednesday. The site also shows nine COVID-19 deaths so far this week, bringing the state's total to 310 since the outbreak began.The increases come as at least one Omaha-area health system reported a testing policy change in the face of testing supply shortages. CHI Health announced Tuesday it would suspend its policy of testing patients for the virus ahead of elective procedures.The system said Abbott Laboratories, which manufactures the supplies CHI Health uses for coronavirus testing, can't meet current demand for the supplies and informed CHI that it would limit shipment of those supplies over then next four to five weeks."By suspending pre-procedural tests, we are able to preserve tests for people experiencing symptoms in the communities we serve," CHI Health said in a news release.CHI Health centers will continue to perform elective surgeries, despite the suspension in pre-procedure testing.

Nebraska sees surge in positive coronavirus cases this week

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump came prepared.

As he took the podium&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bfb8402551605ff40d8a16efbd827b92">Tuesday</a>&nbsp;to give a briefing room update on the coronavirus for the first time in months, the president was asked an obvious question: If wearing a mask is “patriotic,” as he tweeted this week, why didn’t he wear one more frequently?

“Well, I do actually do it when I need. I mean, I carry the mask,” Trump responded. He reached into his suit jacket pocket and produced his for the cameras: navy blue, with a presidential seal.

“I have no problem with the masks. I view it this way: Anything that potentially can help, and that certainly can potentially help, is a good thing. I have no problem. I carry it, I wear it ... and I’ll continue,” he added.

The comments were a dramatic about-face for a president who, for months, resisted wearing a face covering in public and complained privately he thought it would make him look weak and would focus attention on the public health crisis rather than the economic recovery.

Even as top public health officials, who initially had advised the public not to wear masks, became convinced that face coverings could effectively halt the spread of the virus and begged the public to embrace them, Trump resisted. He mocked Democratic rival Joe Biden for wearing one, asked reporters to remove them and entertained the idea that people might be wearing them to spite him.

“I just don’t want to wear one myself,” he said in April. “I don’t know, somehow sitting in the Oval Office behind that beautiful Resolute Desk — the great Resolute Desk — I think wearing a face mask as I greet presidents, prime ministers, dictators, kings, queens, I don’t know. Somehow, I don’t see it for myself. I just don’t. Maybe I’ll change my mind.”

By Tuesday, as coronavirus cases continue to rise across much of the nation, Trump finally came around, saying, “I’m getting used to the mask.”

“I will use it gladly, no problem with it,” he said, urging those watching to follow his lead.

“When you can, use the mask. If you’re close to each other, if you’re in a group, I would put it on,” he said.

But that pronouncement was too little, too late for some public health officials, who have blamed the mixed messaging and Trump’s personal actions for politicizing mask-wearing and fueling a partisan social divide.

“I think it would have been enormous impact if he had done it from Day One,” said Lawrence Gostin, a public health expert at Georgetown University. He worried that Trump’s words would have only marginal impact in moving Americans who aren’t consistently wearing masks in public to do so.

If, from the beginning, “you had consistent messages at the federal, state and local level, if everyone had been on the same page all along on the importance of masks, we’d be in a different situation,” Gostin said.

And Trump still declined to wear a mask at the briefing — noting that he and the reporters who cover him are frequently tested. And he was seen without one Monday evening at the Trump hotel in Washington, where he attended a fundraiser and ate dinner.

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, an occasional informal Trump adviser, had urged the president to wear a mask to the briefing, saying during an appearance on “Fox and Friends” Tuesday, “That’s what’s going to convince people that he’s serious about this.”

Trump tweeted a photo of himself in a face mask Monday, calling it an act of patriotism. He wore one for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7651589ac439646e5cf873d021f1f4b6">first time in public</a>&nbsp;earlier this month during a visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595414351557.png" alt="President Trump pulled his face mask from his suit pocket in response to a reporter's question during Tuesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing-image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump pulled his face mask from his suit pocket in response to a reporter's question during Tuesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing-image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump came prepared.As he took the podium&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bfb8402551605ff40d8a16efbd827b92">Tuesday</a>&nbsp;to give a briefing room update on the coronavirus for the first time in months, the president was asked an obvious question: If wearing a mask is “patriotic,” as he tweeted this week, why didn’t he wear one more frequently?“Well, I do actually do it when I need. I mean, I carry the mask,” Trump responded. He reached into his suit jacket pocket and produced his for the cameras: navy blue, with a presidential seal.“I have no problem with the masks. I view it this way: Anything that potentially can help, and that certainly can potentially help, is a good thing. I have no problem. I carry it, I wear it ... and I’ll continue,” he added.The comments were a dramatic about-face for a president who, for months, resisted wearing a face covering in public and complained privately he thought it would make him look weak and would focus attention on the public health crisis rather than the economic recovery.Even as top public health officials, who initially had advised the public not to wear masks, became convinced that face coverings could effectively halt the spread of the virus and begged the public to embrace them, Trump resisted. He mocked Democratic rival Joe Biden for wearing one, asked reporters to remove them and entertained the idea that people might be wearing them to spite him.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595366343118.png" alt="White House image" />
 <figcaption>White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>“I just don’t want to wear one myself,” he said in April. “I don’t know, somehow sitting in the Oval Office behind that beautiful Resolute Desk — the great Resolute Desk — I think wearing a face mask as I greet presidents, prime ministers, dictators, kings, queens, I don’t know. Somehow, I don’t see it for myself. I just don’t. Maybe I’ll change my mind.”By Tuesday, as coronavirus cases continue to rise across much of the nation, Trump finally came around, saying, “I’m getting used to the mask.”“I will use it gladly, no problem with it,” he said, urging those watching to follow his lead.“When you can, use the mask. If you’re close to each other, if you’re in a group, I would put it on,” he said.But that pronouncement was too little, too late for some public health officials, who have blamed the mixed messaging and Trump’s personal actions for politicizing mask-wearing and fueling a partisan social divide.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595366561351.png" alt="White House image" />
 <figcaption>White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>“I think it would have been enormous impact if he had done it from Day One,” said Lawrence Gostin, a public health expert at Georgetown University. He worried that Trump’s words would have only marginal impact in moving Americans who aren’t consistently wearing masks in public to do so.If, from the beginning, “you had consistent messages at the federal, state and local level, if everyone had been on the same page all along on the importance of masks, we’d be in a different situation,” Gostin said.And Trump still declined to wear a mask at the briefing — noting that he and the reporters who cover him are frequently tested. And he was seen without one Monday evening at the Trump hotel in Washington, where he attended a fundraiser and ate dinner.Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, an occasional informal Trump adviser, had urged the president to wear a mask to the briefing, saying during an appearance on “Fox and Friends” Tuesday, “That’s what’s going to convince people that he’s serious about this.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are United in our effort to defeat the Invisible China Virus, and many people say that it is Patriotic to wear a face mask when you can’t socially distance. There is nobody more Patriotic than me, your favorite President! <a href="https://t.co/iQOd1whktN">pic.twitter.com/iQOd1whktN</a>&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1285299379746811915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump tweeted a photo of himself in a face mask Monday, calling it an act of patriotism. He wore one for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7651589ac439646e5cf873d021f1f4b6">first time in public</a>&nbsp;earlier this month during a visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Trump embraces masks in an about-face

The following video is a Public Service Announcement from the Univesity of Nebraska at Lincoln Athletics Department.

The following video is a Public Service Announcement from the Univesity of Nebraska at Lincoln Athletics Department.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_fKxWtmmu4w" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
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🎥 Huskers athletes, coaches encourage Nebraskans to wear masks in public

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department said on Tuesday that five new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in their jurisdiction, which includes Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker and Arthur Counties.

Three cases are from Lincoln County including a female in her 20s (this case is under investigation), a male in his 40s (this case is travel related), and a female in her 30s (this case is a close contact). All three of these cases are actively isolating at home.

The fourth case is a female in her 30s from Hooker County, actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.

The fifth case is a male in his 50s from McPherson County, actively isolating at home. This case is community spread.

WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?%3Alanguage=en&amp;%3Adisplay_count=y&amp;publish=yes&amp;%3Aorigin=viz_share_link&amp;fbclid=IwAR1ppwKU9t91I4kJkeAEsH25Oeyi2qtkUyBKJIwca9y5vzZX3gPd6W9Rw0c" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/…/WestCentralDistrictHea…/Story1…</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department said on Tuesday that five new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in their jurisdiction, which includes Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker and Arthur Counties.Three cases are from Lincoln County including a female in her 20s (this case is under investigation), a male in his 40s (this case is travel related), and a female in her 30s (this case is a close contact). All three of these cases are actively isolating at home.The fourth case is a female in her 30s from Hooker County, actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.The fifth case is a male in his 50s from McPherson County, actively isolating at home. This case is community spread.WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?%3Alanguage=en&amp;%3Adisplay_count=y&amp;publish=yes&amp;%3Aorigin=viz_share_link&amp;fbclid=IwAR1ppwKU9t91I4kJkeAEsH25Oeyi2qtkUyBKJIwca9y5vzZX3gPd6W9Rw0c" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/…/WestCentralDistrictHea…/Story1…</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595422978143.png" alt="" />
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Five new cases of COVID-19 reported in WCDHD jurisdiction 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska's new president expressed confidence Tuesday that all four university campuses will be ready for in-person classes this fall despite the threat of the coronavirus.

Ted Carter said the campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney have already taken steps to welcome back students while minimizing the risk that the virus will spread.

Carter said students who arrive on campus for the fall semester will see smaller, spread-out classes, less crowded dorms, mandatory masks and buildings that are cleaned more frequently.

"We're not going into this with hope and a prayer," Carter said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We're going into this with a bias for action."

University officials have left open the possibility that they will return to online learning if the pandemic worsens. But Carter said it's important for the university to offer in-person instruction. He said university surveys have shown that the vast majority of students and faculty members want to return for in-person classes, and extra precautions will taken for those who are at greater risk.

"You cannot get the same level of education through a Zoom call," Carter said.

Carter said the university is better-positioned than many other schools because each of its campuses is spread out over large areas, making it easier to keep people at a safe distance. The university has roughly 51,000 students and 16,000 faculty and staff members at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney and the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

In May, the university's flagship campus in Lincoln announced that it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b2f2b4f84ce69bc070d8fd0860eae147" target="_blank">start classes online</a>&nbsp;for one week on Aug. 17 and then transition to in-person learning for the rest of the fall semester, starting Aug. 24. The semester will be shortened, and scheduled to end before Thanksgiving.

Carter was sworn in as the university's new president in January, just a few months before the pandemic forced widespread closures in Nebraska and the rest of the country. The university&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ee78cc53e7840129c7815526dd424167" target="_blank">closed its campuses</a>&nbsp;in April as the pandemic worsened.

The campuses also shifted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8967d9860d335e09c5f7f4ddf8fe8f3" target="_blank">online classes</a>&nbsp;during the spring semester to try to keep the virus from spreading.

Nebraska's community colleges are taking similar steps. For instance, Northeast Community College in Norfolk announced in June that it will offer a combination of small, socially distanced on-campus classes and online instruction.

They also expect to take a leading role in training people who lost their jobs because of the pandemic, said Greg Adams, executive director of the Nebraska Community College Association.

The state has set aside $16 million in federal coronavirus aid to help pay those educational costs. Ricketts said community colleges will administer the program and distribute the money in the form of scholarships for people going into high-demand jobs.

"We need to get (people who lost their jobs) back in the workforce as quickly as we can," Adams said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595366036737.png" alt="Lloyd G. Tanner Plaza featuring Fred J. Hoppe's bronze statue of "Archie" (left of center) and the main entrance to Morrill Hall&nbsp;on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus. (Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Hanyou23">Hanyou23</a>-Wikimedia Creative Commons)" />
 <figcaption>Lloyd G. Tanner Plaza featuring Fred J. Hoppe's bronze statue of "Archie" (left of center) and the main entrance to Morrill Hall&nbsp;on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus. (Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Hanyou23">Hanyou23</a>-Wikimedia Creative Commons)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska's new president expressed confidence Tuesday that all four university campuses will be ready for in-person classes this fall despite the threat of the coronavirus.Ted Carter said the campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney have already taken steps to welcome back students while minimizing the risk that the virus will spread.Carter said students who arrive on campus for the fall semester will see smaller, spread-out classes, less crowded dorms, mandatory masks and buildings that are cleaned more frequently."We're not going into this with hope and a prayer," Carter said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We're going into this with a bias for action."University officials have left open the possibility that they will return to online learning if the pandemic worsens. But Carter said it's important for the university to offer in-person instruction. He said university surveys have shown that the vast majority of students and faculty members want to return for in-person classes, and extra precautions will taken for those who are at greater risk."You cannot get the same level of education through a Zoom call," Carter said.Carter said the university is better-positioned than many other schools because each of its campuses is spread out over large areas, making it easier to keep people at a safe distance. The university has roughly 51,000 students and 16,000 faculty and staff members at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney and the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.In May, the university's flagship campus in Lincoln announced that it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b2f2b4f84ce69bc070d8fd0860eae147" target="_blank">start classes online</a>&nbsp;for one week on Aug. 17 and then transition to in-person learning for the rest of the fall semester, starting Aug. 24. The semester will be shortened, and scheduled to end before Thanksgiving.Carter was sworn in as the university's new president in January, just a few months before the pandemic forced widespread closures in Nebraska and the rest of the country. The university&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ee78cc53e7840129c7815526dd424167" target="_blank">closed its campuses</a>&nbsp;in April as the pandemic worsened.The campuses also shifted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8967d9860d335e09c5f7f4ddf8fe8f3" target="_blank">online classes</a>&nbsp;during the spring semester to try to keep the virus from spreading.Nebraska's community colleges are taking similar steps. For instance, Northeast Community College in Norfolk announced in June that it will offer a combination of small, socially distanced on-campus classes and online instruction.They also expect to take a leading role in training people who lost their jobs because of the pandemic, said Greg Adams, executive director of the Nebraska Community College Association.The state has set aside $16 million in federal coronavirus aid to help pay those educational costs. Ricketts said community colleges will administer the program and distribute the money in the form of scholarships for people going into high-demand jobs."We need to get (people who lost their jobs) back in the workforce as quickly as we can," Adams said.

U. of Nebraska president: Campuses will be ready for virus

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers returned to their session Monday with lingering concerns about the coronavirus and extra safety precautions that will likely remain in place until they adjourn for the year.

The 60-day session resumed with plexiglass barriers separating lawmakers in the legislative chamber, mandatory temperature checks to enter and tougher restrictions on who can access the room.

Lawmakers took the highly unusual step of suspending their session on March 25 to try to keep the virus from spreading after they passed an emergency coronavirus funding bill to cover the state's pandemic response. They took no other action for nearly four months but still have 17 scheduled work days remaining this year.

"A lot has changed and we still have a lot to do," said Speaker of the Legislature Jim Scheer.

Scheer extended his sympathies to state Sen. Tony Vargas, of Omaha, whose father died from the COVID-19 virus in April.

Another lawmaker, state Sen. Mike Moser, of Columbus, was hospitalized and put on a ventilator after contracting the virus, but has since recovered. Moser, a conservative Republican in the ostensibly nonpartisan Legislature, urged his colleagues to don a mask to protect one another. At several points Monday, roughly one-third of the Legislature wasn't wearing a face covering.

"I'd encourage you to set aside your apprehensions and reluctance to go along with the crowd," Moser said in a floor speech to his colleagues. "This is one of those times when I think we should pay attention to science and not take those chances."

Lawmakers will get a better sense of the state's financial outlook on Thursday, when the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board meets to update its state revenue projections. Some senators have expressed optimism that Nebraska's economy has fared better than other states, given that its unemployment rate is still among the lowest nationwide.

Property taxes and the incentives bill are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7ca0e89622596e207f8040ac2eefdfa1" target="_blank">arguably the most high-profile issues</a>&nbsp;senators will confront, along with the potential impact of the coronavirus on the state. Lawmakers are also expected to consider legislation to further clamp down on abortion rights and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a59494aa551cc64f5456fdd4e69ad6a0" target="_blank">impose anti-bias training requirements</a>&nbsp;for police. The training bill was on their radar before several high-profile police killings of Black citizens, but it's likely to gain new significance in the wake of Black Lives Matter protests.

This session could also be the last for Sen. Ernie Chambers, the state's longest-serving and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6dec5663aa7b4a0a9d332897d366aff7" target="_blank">best-known lawmaker</a>, who will have to leave the Legislature for at least four years before he can run again. Chambers is famous for his ability to single-handedly filibuster bills, often bringing the Legislature to a standstill.

Chambers was forced out of office for four years in 2009 due to newly enacted term limits, but returned to his old seat in January 2013. He served two more terms and will be forced out of office again in January 2021.

State law restricts lawmakers to two consecutive four-year terms, but allows them to return after sitting out for one term. Chambers, now 83, hasn't said whether he'll run again.

"You, believe it or not, are going to miss me when I'm gone," Chambers said in a floor speech.

Lawmakers are scheduled to adjourn for the year on Aug. 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595275453389.png" alt="Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Capitolist&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1">Capitolist</a>&nbsp;(Wikimedia Creative Commons)" />
 <figcaption>Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Capitolist&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1">Capitolist</a>&nbsp;(Wikimedia Creative Commons)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers returned to their session Monday with lingering concerns about the coronavirus and extra safety precautions that will likely remain in place until they adjourn for the year.The 60-day session resumed with plexiglass barriers separating lawmakers in the legislative chamber, mandatory temperature checks to enter and tougher restrictions on who can access the room.Lawmakers took the highly unusual step of suspending their session on March 25 to try to keep the virus from spreading after they passed an emergency coronavirus funding bill to cover the state's pandemic response. They took no other action for nearly four months but still have 17 scheduled work days remaining this year."A lot has changed and we still have a lot to do," said Speaker of the Legislature Jim Scheer.Scheer extended his sympathies to state Sen. Tony Vargas, of Omaha, whose father died from the COVID-19 virus in April.Another lawmaker, state Sen. Mike Moser, of Columbus, was hospitalized and put on a ventilator after contracting the virus, but has since recovered. Moser, a conservative Republican in the ostensibly nonpartisan Legislature, urged his colleagues to don a mask to protect one another. At several points Monday, roughly one-third of the Legislature wasn't wearing a face covering."I'd encourage you to set aside your apprehensions and reluctance to go along with the crowd," Moser said in a floor speech to his colleagues. "This is one of those times when I think we should pay attention to science and not take those chances."Lawmakers will get a better sense of the state's financial outlook on Thursday, when the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board meets to update its state revenue projections. Some senators have expressed optimism that Nebraska's economy has fared better than other states, given that its unemployment rate is still among the lowest nationwide.Property taxes and the incentives bill are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7ca0e89622596e207f8040ac2eefdfa1" target="_blank">arguably the most high-profile issues</a>&nbsp;senators will confront, along with the potential impact of the coronavirus on the state. Lawmakers are also expected to consider legislation to further clamp down on abortion rights and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a59494aa551cc64f5456fdd4e69ad6a0" target="_blank">impose anti-bias training requirements</a>&nbsp;for police. The training bill was on their radar before several high-profile police killings of Black citizens, but it's likely to gain new significance in the wake of Black Lives Matter protests.This session could also be the last for Sen. Ernie Chambers, the state's longest-serving and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6dec5663aa7b4a0a9d332897d366aff7" target="_blank">best-known lawmaker</a>, who will have to leave the Legislature for at least four years before he can run again. Chambers is famous for his ability to single-handedly filibuster bills, often bringing the Legislature to a standstill.Chambers was forced out of office for four years in 2009 due to newly enacted term limits, but returned to his old seat in January 2013. He served two more terms and will be forced out of office again in January 2021.State law restricts lawmakers to two consecutive four-year terms, but allows them to return after sitting out for one term. Chambers, now 83, hasn't said whether he'll run again."You, believe it or not, are going to miss me when I'm gone," Chambers said in a floor speech.Lawmakers are scheduled to adjourn for the year on Aug. 13.

Nebraska lawmakers resume session with virus in mind

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Numbers gathered by Nebraska health officials show another day of more than 100 cases of coronavirus confirmed in the state.

Nebraska's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online coronavirus tracker&nbsp;</a>shows 102 cases were confirmed Sunday, bringing the state's total to 22,583 since the outbreak began. The state's total number of deaths remained unchanged at 301.

Nebraska's relatively steady numbers of the virus have run counter to other states across the nation that have seen surges in cases and deaths in recent weeks. Data collected by John Hopkins University shows more than 3.7 million confirmed cases in the U.S. and more than 140,000 deaths in the country from COVID-19.

The Nebraska numbers also show space available for new patients in Nebraska hospitals remained relatively stable. According to the tracker, Nebraska hospitals had 38% of the state's hospital beds available Monday, 42% of the intensive care beds available and 78% of the ventilators still available.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Numbers gathered by Nebraska health officials show another day of more than 100 cases of coronavirus confirmed in the state.Nebraska's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online coronavirus tracker&nbsp;</a>shows 102 cases were confirmed Sunday, bringing the state's total to 22,583 since the outbreak began. The state's total number of deaths remained unchanged at 301.Nebraska's relatively steady numbers of the virus have run counter to other states across the nation that have seen surges in cases and deaths in recent weeks. Data collected by John Hopkins University shows more than 3.7 million confirmed cases in the U.S. and more than 140,000 deaths in the country from COVID-19.The Nebraska numbers also show space available for new patients in Nebraska hospitals remained relatively stable. According to the tracker, Nebraska hospitals had 38% of the state's hospital beds available Monday, 42% of the intensive care beds available and 78% of the ventilators still available.

Nebraska sees another day of 100-plus coronavirus cases

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported a new confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Friday.

According to WCDHD, the individual is a male in his 30s, actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation.

WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR2JY54NU1C2bvdDYdoBIGF2KXE24lss5uOtz0oAEAZsOtHjRGcSW_flOpc#!/vizhome/shared/CJG64N2HJ" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported a new confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Friday.According to WCDHD, the individual is a male in his 30s, actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation.WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR2JY54NU1C2bvdDYdoBIGF2KXE24lss5uOtz0oAEAZsOtHjRGcSW_flOpc#!/vizhome/shared/CJG64N2HJ" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a><figure>
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WCDHD: Lincoln County male in his 30s tests positive for COVID-19

(AP)-A growing number of Nebraska parents are choosing to homeschool their children amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Nebraska Department of Education had processed 3,400 requests as of Tuesday, up 21% from the 2,800 that had been processed at the same time last year. The total includes parents who were already homeschooling last school year.

Officials said the numbers may go higher still as parents continue to evaluate the reopening plans of their children's schools, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/education/amid-coronavirus-concerns-nebraskas-homeschool-filings-jump-up-21/article_3345fc3d-1c0c-5858-8037-cd4b88c5739a.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_OWHnews" target="_blank">reports.</a>

Stephanie Morgan, a longtime homeschooling parent and advocate involved with several homeschooling organizations in Omaha, said she's been fielding a lot of questions from moms interested in homeschooling. Morgan ran an informal survey on social media and found that most new Nebraska homeschooling parents were doing it because of the pandemic.

Among them is Melissa May, who has decided to homeschool her twin 8-year-old daughters, Gracelyn and Hannah.

"I think the pandemic just gave me a little extra push to do it and give it a try now instead of waiting," said May, whose girls were students in the Bellevue Public Schools last school year.

Nebraska has confirmed 22,361 known cases and 301 virus-related deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's online tracking portal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595092793584.png" alt="Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jimmiehomeschoolmom/">Jimmie</a>&nbsp;(Flickr Creative Commons) " />
 <figcaption>Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jimmiehomeschoolmom/">Jimmie</a>&nbsp;(Flickr Creative Commons) </figcaption>
 </figure>(AP)-A growing number of Nebraska parents are choosing to homeschool their children amid the coronavirus pandemic.The Nebraska Department of Education had processed 3,400 requests as of Tuesday, up 21% from the 2,800 that had been processed at the same time last year. The total includes parents who were already homeschooling last school year.Officials said the numbers may go higher still as parents continue to evaluate the reopening plans of their children's schools, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/education/amid-coronavirus-concerns-nebraskas-homeschool-filings-jump-up-21/article_3345fc3d-1c0c-5858-8037-cd4b88c5739a.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_OWHnews" target="_blank">reports.</a>Stephanie Morgan, a longtime homeschooling parent and advocate involved with several homeschooling organizations in Omaha, said she's been fielding a lot of questions from moms interested in homeschooling. Morgan ran an informal survey on social media and found that most new Nebraska homeschooling parents were doing it because of the pandemic.Among them is Melissa May, who has decided to homeschool her twin 8-year-old daughters, Gracelyn and Hannah."I think the pandemic just gave me a little extra push to do it and give it a try now instead of waiting," said May, whose girls were students in the Bellevue Public Schools last school year.Nebraska has confirmed 22,361 known cases and 301 virus-related deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's online tracking portal.

Amid coronavirus, Nebraska's homeschool filings jump up 21%

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts and Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) Commissioner Matthew Blomstedt discussed plans for schools to resume in-class instruction this fall.&nbsp; Schools in Nebraska closed their buildings in March and finished the spring semester through remote learning due to coronavirus.&nbsp; Next month, students will return to school across the state.

Additionally, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) CEO Dannette R. Smith joined the Governor for today’s press briefing.&nbsp; She announced new resources that the State will provide to help its federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in their ongoing response to the pandemic.

Full video of today’s briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fbfh5bex8bya4ibe%2FPress%2520Conf%25207.17.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C43e4e9786d4248fa7c5b08d82a8e643a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637306138352894345&amp;sdata=vAdq4mduMyH65Deu7PKm1k3UM3DJzNI97m5qlhorFsk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595077136190.jpeg" alt="ricketts presser july 18 2020.jpg" />
 <figcaption>ricketts presser july 18 2020.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseLINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts and Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) Commissioner Matthew Blomstedt discussed plans for schools to resume in-class instruction this fall.&nbsp; Schools in Nebraska closed their buildings in March and finished the spring semester through remote learning due to coronavirus.&nbsp; Next month, students will return to school across the state.Additionally, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) CEO Dannette R. Smith joined the Governor for today’s press briefing.&nbsp; She announced new resources that the State will provide to help its federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in their ongoing response to the pandemic.Gov. Ricketts: Back to School<ul>
 <li>Commissioner Blomstedt has been working tirelessly, in partnership with superintendents, to come up with protocols for schools to operate safely in the coming weeks.</li><li>There are many reasons why it’s important for schools to be open this fall. Every child learns differently.&nbsp; Remote learning can be less effective, and it’s important that we provide the highest quality education possible.Not every parent is able to devote individual time and attention to oversee remote learning indefinitely.Social isolation isn’t good for the well-being of kids. &nbsp;They need interaction with their friends and the mentorship teachers provide.Education promotes physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.Kids battling food insecurity have better access to good nutrition when they’re in school.</li><li>Every child learns differently.&nbsp; Remote learning can be less effective, and it’s important that we provide the highest quality education possible.Not every parent is able to devote individual time and attention to oversee remote learning indefinitely.</li><li>Not every parent is able to devote individual time and attention to oversee remote learning indefinitely.</li><li>Social isolation isn’t good for the well-being of kids. &nbsp;They need interaction with their friends and the mentorship teachers provide.</li><li>Education promotes physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.</li><li>Kids battling food insecurity have better access to good nutrition when they’re in school.</li><li>As schools resume classes, local school boards and leaders are making the decisions that are right for their community. The impact of the virus varies by community over time.Some school facilities allow for more physical distancing than others.I know that many Nebraskans will have strong opinions about how schools should operate.We ask parents to be patient and gracious toward their school board members and superintendents. &nbsp;These leaders are facing very difficult decisions about how to operate most safely and effectively for everyone involved.</li><li>The impact of the virus varies by community over time.</li><li>Some school facilities allow for more physical distancing than others.</li><li>I know that many Nebraskans will have strong opinions about how schools should operate.We ask parents to be patient and gracious toward their school board members and superintendents. &nbsp;These leaders are facing very difficult decisions about how to operate most safely and effectively for everyone involved.</li><li>We ask parents to be patient and gracious toward their school board members and superintendents. &nbsp;These leaders are facing very difficult decisions about how to operate most safely and effectively for everyone involved.</li>
 </ul>Commissioner Blomstedt: Back to School<ul>
 <li>We’re looking at getting students in the classroom safely, and it will take all of our efforts to do this well.</li><li>We want to ensure we’re making decisions that are best for each district, each community, and each facility based on the conditions at hand.</li><li>The Nebraska Department of Education will have guidance on planning for a safe return to school. &nbsp;It will be available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.launchne.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C43e4e9786d4248fa7c5b08d82a8e643a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637306138352889368&amp;sdata=PpNGfKXKV6swiWmhrXbvjlLHIoLUSCnDJG2xOGaUE48%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.launchne.com</a>.</li><li>Our guidance documents have been built through collaboration with a number of partners, including the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, local health departments, and school districts.</li>
 </ul>DHHS CEO Smith:<ul>
 <li>Over the last three months, Nebraska’s federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) have shown that they play a critical role in addressing access to care for Nebraska’s most vulnerable citizens.</li><li>Health centers are a statewide system providing primary medical, dental, and behavioral health care for all, regardless of insurance status, ability to pay, primary language spoken, or cultural background.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Earlier this summer, DHHS received a proposal and budget request from the Health Center Association of Nebraska (HCAN) on behalf of its member FQHCs for $5 million.&nbsp; This funding has been awarded by the State and will be used in the following ways: Enhancing case management for health center patientsEach of the FQHCs will expand capacity at their call centers, which serve as the first stop for many patients. &nbsp;Call center staff provide education, answer questions, schedule appointments, and provide assistance as patients seek to be tested.Each of the FQHCs also employ community health workers, who provide referrals, triage patients, contact patients who have tested positive, provide guidance to patients to ensure they self-isolate as appropriate, and provide assistance via telehealth to patients managing chronic diseases. &nbsp;The funds will support increasing this vital work.Expanding testing and contact tracingWith additional funding, FQHCs will be able to add additional staff and supplies in order to increase testing and contact tracing capacity.Stabilizing health center infrastructureNebraska’s FQHCs currently serve just over 115,000 patients. &nbsp;In recent years, they have seen roughly 10-12% annual growth in the number of patients served, and they expect this year to be no exception.</li><li>Enhancing case management for health center patientsEach of the FQHCs will expand capacity at their call centers, which serve as the first stop for many patients. &nbsp;Call center staff provide education, answer questions, schedule appointments, and provide assistance as patients seek to be tested.Each of the FQHCs also employ community health workers, who provide referrals, triage patients, contact patients who have tested positive, provide guidance to patients to ensure they self-isolate as appropriate, and provide assistance via telehealth to patients managing chronic diseases. &nbsp;The funds will support increasing this vital work.</li><li>Each of the FQHCs will expand capacity at their call centers, which serve as the first stop for many patients. &nbsp;Call center staff provide education, answer questions, schedule appointments, and provide assistance as patients seek to be tested.</li><li>Each of the FQHCs also employ community health workers, who provide referrals, triage patients, contact patients who have tested positive, provide guidance to patients to ensure they self-isolate as appropriate, and provide assistance via telehealth to patients managing chronic diseases. &nbsp;The funds will support increasing this vital work.</li><li>Expanding testing and contact tracingWith additional funding, FQHCs will be able to add additional staff and supplies in order to increase testing and contact tracing capacity.</li><li>With additional funding, FQHCs will be able to add additional staff and supplies in order to increase testing and contact tracing capacity.</li><li>Stabilizing health center infrastructureNebraska’s FQHCs currently serve just over 115,000 patients. &nbsp;In recent years, they have seen roughly 10-12% annual growth in the number of patients served, and they expect this year to be no exception.</li><li>Nebraska’s FQHCs currently serve just over 115,000 patients. &nbsp;In recent years, they have seen roughly 10-12% annual growth in the number of patients served, and they expect this year to be no exception.</li>
 </ul>Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska<ul>
 <li>All Nebraskans are now eligible for testing through Test Nebraska.</li><li>We are now partnering with hospitals across the state to provide testing through Test Nebraska. We’ve doubled the number of days we tested in Lincoln this week, and we are planning to expand slots.We increased the number of time slots significantly in Omaha, and we are preparing to announce a second Test Nebraska location there. &nbsp;We will continue to adjust testing to meet demand.</li><li>We’ve doubled the number of days we tested in Lincoln this week, and we are planning to expand slots.</li><li>We increased the number of time slots significantly in Omaha, and we are preparing to announce a second Test Nebraska location there. &nbsp;</li><li>We will continue to adjust testing to meet demand.</li><li>I encourage Nebraskans to sign up and schedule a time to get tested.</li><li>Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C43e4e9786d4248fa7c5b08d82a8e643a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637306138352889368&amp;sdata=xeuoOq7fJvfoAINw19icBSTGPNegNCVtmMpOmn6BR0I%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to find the latest schedule.</li>
 </ul>Full video of today’s briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fbfh5bex8bya4ibe%2FPress%2520Conf%25207.17.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C43e4e9786d4248fa7c5b08d82a8e643a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637306138352894345&amp;sdata=vAdq4mduMyH65Deu7PKm1k3UM3DJzNI97m5qlhorFsk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts, education officials overview state back-to-school plans

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's public schools will use a color-coded scale to decide what restrictions they'll put in place when they reopen this fall despite the coronavirus threat, state officials said Friday.

Schools considered to be least at-risk for spreading the virus will be labeled green on the scale, and students will attend classes as normal with some screening procedures in place, according to the Nebraska Department of Education.

Schools facing the greatest risk will be coded red, triggering a return to remote learning only and no participation in athletics.

Meanwhile, schools deemed to be at moderate risk will be categorized as yellow or orange and have restrictions that could include a reduction in the number of students allowed in the building at any one time and a mask requirement when feasible. A school's color will depend on local infection rates, available hospital space and other factors.

"This is going to be a difficult time for everybody, but we all have the goal of making sure kids go back in the classroom this fall," Gov. Pete Ricketts said at a news conference to discuss the state's plans.

Ricketts also reiterated that the state won't force local school districts to require masks.

Ricketts and Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt said the state's reopening plan is based on conversations with school administrators, the state teachers union and public health officials. The color-coded system is similar to recommendations released by the Nebraska State Education Association, the union that represents Nebraska public school teachers.

Nebraska's coronavirus case numbers have slowly trended downward while cases in many other states have surged, but they ticked up briefly earlier this week, when the state confirmed 318 new cases on Tuesday before dipping back down again. Earlier in the pandemic, Nebraska experienced a surge in cases that came later than in other states.

A leading advocate for Nebraska's K-12 public school teachers said many are worried for their safety and feel that the state is moving too quickly to reopen schools and restart team sports programs.

"Teachers want to back to school, they want to be with kids, but they're concerned that there aren't enough safety measures being mandated, instead of just suggested," said Maddie Fennell, executive director of the Nebraska State Education Association.

Ricketts and Blomstedt said it's important for children to return to school for the social, physical, emotional and nutritional benefits that students may not get at home. Blomstedt said districts are also creating plans for students who contract the coronavirus, and their response "is going to be really dependent on good communication between the school and local health officials."

Nebraska's focus on local control has allowed schools to collaborate with teachers, parents, administrators, custodians and even officials from other school districts to figure out what works best for them, said Josh McDowell, the superintendent of Crete Public Schools.

"This is probably one of those instances where we're not going to have 100% consensus, no matter what we choose to do," McDowell said. "But we've been including people in the process from the beginning."

Nebraska has confirmed 22,134 known cases and 299 virus-related deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>. State officials confirmed 155 new cases on Thursday.

Nebraska currently has 39% of its hospital beds available and 81% of its ventilators available, according to the tracking portal.

Follow Grant Schulte on Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte</a>

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's public schools will use a color-coded scale to decide what restrictions they'll put in place when they reopen this fall despite the coronavirus threat, state officials said Friday.Schools considered to be least at-risk for spreading the virus will be labeled green on the scale, and students will attend classes as normal with some screening procedures in place, according to the Nebraska Department of Education.Schools facing the greatest risk will be coded red, triggering a return to remote learning only and no participation in athletics.Meanwhile, schools deemed to be at moderate risk will be categorized as yellow or orange and have restrictions that could include a reduction in the number of students allowed in the building at any one time and a mask requirement when feasible. A school's color will depend on local infection rates, available hospital space and other factors."This is going to be a difficult time for everybody, but we all have the goal of making sure kids go back in the classroom this fall," Gov. Pete Ricketts said at a news conference to discuss the state's plans.Ricketts also reiterated that the state won't force local school districts to require masks.Ricketts and Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt said the state's reopening plan is based on conversations with school administrators, the state teachers union and public health officials. The color-coded system is similar to recommendations released by the Nebraska State Education Association, the union that represents Nebraska public school teachers.Nebraska's coronavirus case numbers have slowly trended downward while cases in many other states have surged, but they ticked up briefly earlier this week, when the state confirmed 318 new cases on Tuesday before dipping back down again. Earlier in the pandemic, Nebraska experienced a surge in cases that came later than in other states.A leading advocate for Nebraska's K-12 public school teachers said many are worried for their safety and feel that the state is moving too quickly to reopen schools and restart team sports programs."Teachers want to back to school, they want to be with kids, but they're concerned that there aren't enough safety measures being mandated, instead of just suggested," said Maddie Fennell, executive director of the Nebraska State Education Association.Ricketts and Blomstedt said it's important for children to return to school for the social, physical, emotional and nutritional benefits that students may not get at home. Blomstedt said districts are also creating plans for students who contract the coronavirus, and their response "is going to be really dependent on good communication between the school and local health officials."Nebraska's focus on local control has allowed schools to collaborate with teachers, parents, administrators, custodians and even officials from other school districts to figure out what works best for them, said Josh McDowell, the superintendent of Crete Public Schools."This is probably one of those instances where we're not going to have 100% consensus, no matter what we choose to do," McDowell said. "But we've been including people in the process from the beginning."Nebraska has confirmed 22,134 known cases and 299 virus-related deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>. State officials confirmed 155 new cases on Thursday.Nebraska currently has 39% of its hospital beds available and 81% of its ventilators available, according to the tracking portal.___Follow Grant Schulte on Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte</a>

Coronavirus Update