<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585250005868.png" alt="department of insurance release 3 26 20.PNG" />
 <figcaption>department of insurance release 3 26 20.PNG</figcaption>
 </figure>

Nebraska Dept. of Insurance gives tips on making a health insurance choice after losing job

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — President Donald Trump has called the country to open for business by mid-April, but some experts warn it's not as easy as flipping a switch: Economies run on confidence, and that is likely to be in short supply for as long as coronavirus cases in the United States are still rising. 

Many public health experts have warned that the current restrictions should only be lifted gradually. They expect efforts to curb the disease will continue for several months at least. 

But many businesses are wary of reopening too soon. They are worried that could be seen as irresponsible. And even if they did reopen, would customers come if the virus isn't under control?&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — President Donald Trump has called the country to open for business by mid-April, but some experts warn it's not as easy as flipping a switch: Economies run on confidence, and that is likely to be in short supply for as long as coronavirus cases in the United States are still rising. Many public health experts have warned that the current restrictions should only be lifted gradually. They expect efforts to curb the disease will continue for several months at least. But many businesses are wary of reopening too soon. They are worried that could be seen as irresponsible. And even if they did reopen, would customers come if the virus isn't under control?&nbsp;

Many businesses cautious about restarting economy amid virus

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's initial claims for unemployment benefits skyrocketed with the nation's last week amid the coronavirus pandemic, rising to nearly 16,000 from a little less than 800 the week before, according to a federal report released Thursday.

Nationally, 3.3 million people filed unemployment claims in the week ending March 21, compared with 282,000 the week before.

"Nearly every state providing comments cited the COVID-19 virus impacts," the U.S. Labor Department report said. "States continued to cite services industries broadly, particularly accommodation and food services."

The dire financial news came as two more COVID-19 cases were confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68, state officials said.

The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/91b05abf7280c070bbd4ed3f185f97e7" target="_blank">relief package</a>. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.

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

The governor also added Lancaster, Dodge and Saunders counties to the list of places where restaurants and bars will have to close their dining rooms because of the health risk. Similar restrictions were already in place for Douglas, Sarpy, Cass and Washington counties. Combined, all of those counties account for more than 1.1 million people and well over half of the state's population.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's initial claims for unemployment benefits skyrocketed with the nation's last week amid the coronavirus pandemic, rising to nearly 16,000 from a little less than 800 the week before, according to a federal report released Thursday.Nationally, 3.3 million people filed unemployment claims in the week ending March 21, compared with 282,000 the week before."Nearly every state providing comments cited the COVID-19 virus impacts," the U.S. Labor Department report said. "States continued to cite services industries broadly, particularly accommodation and food services."The dire financial news came as two more COVID-19 cases were confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68, state officials said.The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/91b05abf7280c070bbd4ed3f185f97e7" target="_blank">relief package</a>. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.The governor also added Lancaster, Dodge and Saunders counties to the list of places where restaurants and bars will have to close their dining rooms because of the health risk. Similar restrictions were already in place for Douglas, Sarpy, Cass and Washington counties. Combined, all of those counties account for more than 1.1 million people and well over half of the state's population.

Nebraska jobless claims soar with rise in virus numbers

DUFUR, Ore. (AP) — The pandemic's toll in big cities like New York, Seattle and San Francisco has dominated headlines, but large swaths of rural America are also deeply affected. 

Tiny towns tucked into Oregon's windswept plains or on Alaska's arctic tundra might not have a single case of the new coronavirus yet, but these small communities are still wary. 

They fear the spread of the disease to areas with scarce medical resources, the social isolation that comes when the only diner in town closes its doors and the economic free fall that's hitting hard in places where jobs were already hard to come by.&nbsp;

DUFUR, Ore. (AP) — The pandemic's toll in big cities like New York, Seattle and San Francisco has dominated headlines, but large swaths of rural America are also deeply affected. Tiny towns tucked into Oregon's windswept plains or on Alaska's arctic tundra might not have a single case of the new coronavirus yet, but these small communities are still wary. They fear the spread of the disease to areas with scarce medical resources, the social isolation that comes when the only diner in town closes its doors and the economic free fall that's hitting hard in places where jobs were already hard to come by.&nbsp;

Rural America watches pandemic erupt in cities as fear grows

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pressure was mounting on the Trump administration Wednesday to release people from immigration detention facilities where at least one detainee has tested positive for COVID-19 and advocates fear tight quarters and overall conditions could cause rapid spread of the virus.

The U.S. holds around 37,000 people in immigration detention. Detainees and advocates say many are vulnerable because of age and pre-existing medical conditions, and because they are often held in open rooms, beds 3-feet apart, and without adequate supplies of masks or other protections.

“It’s impossible to stay calm,” said Marco Battistotti, an Italian who is among 170 people detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Bristol County jail in Massachusetts. “People are panicking. People are in fear.”

The 54-year-old Battistotti was among about 100 detainees at the county jail near Cape Cod who signed a letter released by a local immigration lawyer detailing conditions inside. They asked to be released to await decisions on their immigration cases.

“I don’t want to die in an ICE jail,” he said in a phone interview with The Associated Press. “Why can’t I fight my case on the outside?”

The agency, which reported the positive test of a 31-year-old man from Mexico held in Bergen County, New Jersey, on Tuesday, has announced steps to protect detained migrants and staff from the virus, but hasn’t said whether it plans to review cases for possible release because of the outbreak. It did not immediately respond to a request to comment on the complaints about conditions from the detainees and their advocates.

The administration has tried to balance its overall hard line on immigration, a signature policy of President Donald Trump, and its response to the outbreak, with ICE announcing previously that it would “temporarily adjust” operations to focus on apprehending people who pose a risk to public safety or are subject to mandatory detention because of a criminal record.

Immigrant advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union, are filing lawsuits in California, Maryland, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, seeking court orders for the immediate release of people in immigration detention, especially those at risk because of their age or medical conditions.

It’s unclear how many detainees overall are at higher risk, but one California suit alone had 13 plaintiffs, all over 55.

A panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on Monday, citing the “rapidly escalating public health crisis,” ordered the immediate release of a 37-year-old woman who is fighting deportation to Mexico.

The woman’s lawyer, Max Carter-Oberstone, said the government told him it would not oppose the decision, which the court took on its own initiative in a rare move on behalf of a woman who he says has been threatened with death by members of a Mexican drug cartel.

“It wasn’t something we asked for or were expecting,” Carter-Oberstone said. “The court is clearly reacting to the greater public health crisis that we’re in right now and re-evaluating how it’s going to dispose of its immigration cases in light of that crisis that we’re all experiencing.”

The situation in immigration detention, which include facilities run by local jurisdictions and private contractors, is similar to that facing jails and prisons, with staff also at risk from a virus that already has sickened at least 55,000 people and killed about 800 in the U.S.

One difference is that more than half of ICE detainees have no criminal charges or conviction and are held only for immigration reasons. Under previous administrations, many would likely have been released on bond as they pursued their cases.

ICE has reported one positive test of an employee at a detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and 18 confirmed cases among staff not involved in detaining migrants. A contractor reported a positive case of a staff member at a facility in Harris County, Texas. The agency says it is screening new detainees and isolating detainees who show symptoms of the coronavirus disease.

Detainees say those measures won’t do much, with people staying in dorm-like bays with no social distancing possible or in smaller rooms that they sometimes have to clean themselves, with insufficient cleaning supplies.

Francisca Morales Diaz, a 45-year-old from Mexico who was released Friday from an ICE detention center in Louisiana, said she and others were issued soap and toilet paper for their own use once a week and they would run out. When they complained, she says they were told there were shortages on the outside as well.

“There isn’t enough medicine. It’s not well-maintained,” Morales told AP. Her fear is that “at any moment, they’re going to come and take me back there.”

Ira Alkalay, a lawyer representing some of the detainees at the jail near Cape Cod, said the detainees are responsible for cleaning their unit, which includes a dining area and bathrooms, but aren’t even given bleach. Some who signed the letter suffer from respiratory ailments such as tuberculosis, emphysema and asthma that put them at higher risk to the virus.

“These are not sanitary conditions at all,” Alkalay said. “If the virus is introduced, many people could get sick all at once. Hospitals in the area can become quickly overwhelmed.”

The office of Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson, who has made headlines for offering to send the jail’s ICE detainees to help build Trump’s promised border wall, has stressed there are currently no confirmed or suspected cases of the virus at the facility.

“We suspect these detainees are working with outside political activist groups to use the coronavirus crisis to advance their political agenda,” the sheriff’s spokesman, Jonathan Darling, said this week.

Eunice Cho, an ACLU lawyer, said the confined spaces and limited medical treatment in many immigration jails made them especially vulnerable — and if the virus spreads through one facility, the number of sick people who would require advanced care could overwhelm area hospitals. Many ICE jails are in rural areas with smaller hospitals.

“This is closely related to the public health of our entire community,” Cho said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562938154243.png" alt="Image courtesy U.S. Office of Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy U.S. Office of Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Pressure was mounting on the Trump administration Wednesday to release people from immigration detention facilities where at least one detainee has tested positive for COVID-19 and advocates fear tight quarters and overall conditions could cause rapid spread of the virus.The U.S. holds around 37,000 people in immigration detention. Detainees and advocates say many are vulnerable because of age and pre-existing medical conditions, and because they are often held in open rooms, beds 3-feet apart, and without adequate supplies of masks or other protections.“It’s impossible to stay calm,” said Marco Battistotti, an Italian who is among 170 people detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Bristol County jail in Massachusetts. “People are panicking. People are in fear.”The 54-year-old Battistotti was among about 100 detainees at the county jail near Cape Cod who signed a letter released by a local immigration lawyer detailing conditions inside. They asked to be released to await decisions on their immigration cases.“I don’t want to die in an ICE jail,” he said in a phone interview with The Associated Press. “Why can’t I fight my case on the outside?”The agency, which reported the positive test of a 31-year-old man from Mexico held in Bergen County, New Jersey, on Tuesday, has announced steps to protect detained migrants and staff from the virus, but hasn’t said whether it plans to review cases for possible release because of the outbreak. It did not immediately respond to a request to comment on the complaints about conditions from the detainees and their advocates.The administration has tried to balance its overall hard line on immigration, a signature policy of President Donald Trump, and its response to the outbreak, with ICE announcing previously that it would “temporarily adjust” operations to focus on apprehending people who pose a risk to public safety or are subject to mandatory detention because of a criminal record.Immigrant advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union, are filing lawsuits in California, Maryland, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, seeking court orders for the immediate release of people in immigration detention, especially those at risk because of their age or medical conditions.It’s unclear how many detainees overall are at higher risk, but one California suit alone had 13 plaintiffs, all over 55.A panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on Monday, citing the “rapidly escalating public health crisis,” ordered the immediate release of a 37-year-old woman who is fighting deportation to Mexico.The woman’s lawyer, Max Carter-Oberstone, said the government told him it would not oppose the decision, which the court took on its own initiative in a rare move on behalf of a woman who he says has been threatened with death by members of a Mexican drug cartel.“It wasn’t something we asked for or were expecting,” Carter-Oberstone said. “The court is clearly reacting to the greater public health crisis that we’re in right now and re-evaluating how it’s going to dispose of its immigration cases in light of that crisis that we’re all experiencing.”The situation in immigration detention, which include facilities run by local jurisdictions and private contractors, is similar to that facing jails and prisons, with staff also at risk from a virus that already has sickened at least 55,000 people and killed about 800 in the U.S.One difference is that more than half of ICE detainees have no criminal charges or conviction and are held only for immigration reasons. Under previous administrations, many would likely have been released on bond as they pursued their cases.ICE has reported one positive test of an employee at a detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and 18 confirmed cases among staff not involved in detaining migrants. A contractor reported a positive case of a staff member at a facility in Harris County, Texas. The agency says it is screening new detainees and isolating detainees who show symptoms of the coronavirus disease.Detainees say those measures won’t do much, with people staying in dorm-like bays with no social distancing possible or in smaller rooms that they sometimes have to clean themselves, with insufficient cleaning supplies.Francisca Morales Diaz, a 45-year-old from Mexico who was released Friday from an ICE detention center in Louisiana, said she and others were issued soap and toilet paper for their own use once a week and they would run out. When they complained, she says they were told there were shortages on the outside as well.“There isn’t enough medicine. It’s not well-maintained,” Morales told AP. Her fear is that “at any moment, they’re going to come and take me back there.”Ira Alkalay, a lawyer representing some of the detainees at the jail near Cape Cod, said the detainees are responsible for cleaning their unit, which includes a dining area and bathrooms, but aren’t even given bleach. Some who signed the letter suffer from respiratory ailments such as tuberculosis, emphysema and asthma that put them at higher risk to the virus.“These are not sanitary conditions at all,” Alkalay said. “If the virus is introduced, many people could get sick all at once. Hospitals in the area can become quickly overwhelmed.”The office of Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson, who has made headlines for offering to send the jail’s ICE detainees to help build Trump’s promised border wall, has stressed there are currently no confirmed or suspected cases of the virus at the facility.“We suspect these detainees are working with outside political activist groups to use the coronavirus crisis to advance their political agenda,” the sheriff’s spokesman, Jonathan Darling, said this week.Eunice Cho, an ACLU lawyer, said the confined spaces and limited medical treatment in many immigration jails made them especially vulnerable — and if the virus spreads through one facility, the number of sick people who would require advanced care could overwhelm area hospitals. Many ICE jails are in rural areas with smaller hospitals.“This is closely related to the public health of our entire community,” Cho said.

Trump administration urged to free migrants as virus surges

By TYLER ELLYSON-<a href="http://unknews.unk.edu/2020/03/25/unk-wrestlers-become-delivery-drivers-to-support-community-hot-meals-usa/">UNK Communications</a>

KEARNEY – Classic rock played on the stereo as Matt Malcom and Anthony Mancini cruised the streets of Kearney, looking for the next address on their list.

Cartons of milk and takeout containers loaded with roasted pork, potatoes and green beans filled the backseat of the Jeep Compass, which served as their delivery vehicle on Tuesday.

“This is my favorite part – getting out of the car,” Mancini joked as they pulled up to a small house in the heart of the city.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney wrestler – wearing a large brace on his left knee and holding a crutch under one arm – is recovering from an ACL reconstruction surgery he underwent last week. But that wasn’t going to stop him from helping people in need.

“In the grand scheme of things, a torn ACL really isn’t that bad,” said Mancini, a graduate student studying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/csp/student-affairs.php">higher education student affairs</a>. “There are people who have lost their sources of income and elderly people who can’t go out because of the risk. Yeah, it’s not the most convenient thing for me, but it’s nothing compared to what a lot of these people are facing.”

Like several other members of the UNK wrestling team, Mancini and Malcom are volunteering their time to assist&nbsp;<a href="http://hotmealsusa.com/">Hot Meals USA</a>, a Kearney-based nonprofit that provides food to people impacted by disasters. The organization recently mobilized in response to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which has forced businesses and schools to close and altered everyday life for many Nebraskans.

Supported by donations, Hot Meals USA provides free meals 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Food can be picked up using a drive-through lane in the Museum of Nebraska Art parking lot, 2401 Central Ave., or home delivery is available by calling Kearney Jubilee Center at 308-234-3880.

Hot Meals USA founder and director Dick Cochran expects to serve about 6,000 meals this week, and volunteers are a vital part of that process.

“We’ve had so many young folks down here helping,” Cochran said. “It’s just been such a blessing. I can’t tell you how much we appreciate these guys.”

Led by head coach Dalton Jensen, the UNK wrestling team got involved last week, with student-athletes and coaches lending a hand each day.

“There are a lot of people in need right now. Some people are struggling to even get a daily meal,” said Jensen, who wasn’t surprised by his team’s willingness to step up and help out.

“These guys know it’s important for us to give back to the community, which has been so great to us and supportive of UNK wrestling,” he added.

Malcom and Mancini, who have both volunteered multiple days, didn’t think twice about spending part of their spring break delivering meals in Kearney.

“The community does a lot to support us and I think it’s important for us to give back to them in any we can, especially right now when times are hard,” Mancini said.

A Delaware native, Mancini transferred to UNK from Franklin &amp; Marshall College in Pennsylvania, where he wrestled for four years. It’s rare to see a city embrace a collegiate wrestling program the way Kearney does, he said.

“That’s why all of us are willing to do whatever it takes to help them out,” Mancini said.

Malcom, an Iowa native studying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/hperls/health_pe.php">physical education</a>, agrees with his teammate.

“Everyone knows this has been a tough situation,” he said. “We’re all pretty fortunate to be where we’re at in our lives, but we can’t forget about those who need a little extra assistance.”

As the wrestlers made their way around town Tuesday, the community showed its gratitude with a warm smile and sincere “thank you” at every stop.

“I appreciate what they’re doing,” Kearney resident Jean Johnson said. “I think it’s wonderful. They’re helping out the city and the people who live here.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585229356195.png" alt="UNK wrestlers Anthony Mancini, left, and Matt Malcom deliver meals to Paula Cowen on Tuesday while volunteering for Hot Meals USA. (Photos by Corbey R. Dorsey, UNK Communications)" />
 <figcaption>UNK wrestlers Anthony Mancini, left, and Matt Malcom deliver meals to Paula Cowen on Tuesday while volunteering for Hot Meals USA. (Photos by Corbey R. Dorsey, UNK Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TYLER ELLYSON-<a href="http://unknews.unk.edu/2020/03/25/unk-wrestlers-become-delivery-drivers-to-support-community-hot-meals-usa/">UNK Communications</a>KEARNEY – Classic rock played on the stereo as Matt Malcom and Anthony Mancini cruised the streets of Kearney, looking for the next address on their list.<figure>
 <img src="http://unknews.unk.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Anthony-Mancini-231x300.jpg" alt="Anthony Mancini" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Mancini</figcaption>
 </figure>Cartons of milk and takeout containers loaded with roasted pork, potatoes and green beans filled the backseat of the Jeep Compass, which served as their delivery vehicle on Tuesday.“This is my favorite part – getting out of the car,” Mancini joked as they pulled up to a small house in the heart of the city.The University of Nebraska at Kearney wrestler – wearing a large brace on his left knee and holding a crutch under one arm – is recovering from an ACL reconstruction surgery he underwent last week. But that wasn’t going to stop him from helping people in need.“In the grand scheme of things, a torn ACL really isn’t that bad,” said Mancini, a graduate student studying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/csp/student-affairs.php">higher education student affairs</a>. “There are people who have lost their sources of income and elderly people who can’t go out because of the risk. Yeah, it’s not the most convenient thing for me, but it’s nothing compared to what a lot of these people are facing.”Like several other members of the UNK wrestling team, Mancini and Malcom are volunteering their time to assist&nbsp;<a href="http://hotmealsusa.com/">Hot Meals USA</a>, a Kearney-based nonprofit that provides food to people impacted by disasters. The organization recently mobilized in response to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which has forced businesses and schools to close and altered everyday life for many Nebraskans.Supported by donations, Hot Meals USA provides free meals 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Food can be picked up using a drive-through lane in the Museum of Nebraska Art parking lot, 2401 Central Ave., or home delivery is available by calling Kearney Jubilee Center at 308-234-3880.<figure>
 <img src="http://unknews.unk.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Dalton-Jensen-1-229x300.jpg" alt="Dalton Jensen" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Jensen</figcaption>
 </figure>Hot Meals USA founder and director Dick Cochran expects to serve about 6,000 meals this week, and volunteers are a vital part of that process.“We’ve had so many young folks down here helping,” Cochran said. “It’s just been such a blessing. I can’t tell you how much we appreciate these guys.”Led by head coach Dalton Jensen, the UNK wrestling team got involved last week, with student-athletes and coaches lending a hand each day.“There are a lot of people in need right now. Some people are struggling to even get a daily meal,” said Jensen, who wasn’t surprised by his team’s willingness to step up and help out.“These guys know it’s important for us to give back to the community, which has been so great to us and supportive of UNK wrestling,” he added.Malcom and Mancini, who have both volunteered multiple days, didn’t think twice about spending part of their spring break delivering meals in Kearney.“The community does a lot to support us and I think it’s important for us to give back to them in any we can, especially right now when times are hard,” Mancini said.<figure>
 <img src="http://unknews.unk.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Matt-Malcom-241x300.jpg" alt="Matt Malcom" />
 <figcaption>Matt Malcom</figcaption>
 </figure>A Delaware native, Mancini transferred to UNK from Franklin &amp; Marshall College in Pennsylvania, where he wrestled for four years. It’s rare to see a city embrace a collegiate wrestling program the way Kearney does, he said.“That’s why all of us are willing to do whatever it takes to help them out,” Mancini said.Malcom, an Iowa native studying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/hperls/health_pe.php">physical education</a>, agrees with his teammate.“Everyone knows this has been a tough situation,” he said. “We’re all pretty fortunate to be where we’re at in our lives, but we can’t forget about those who need a little extra assistance.”As the wrestlers made their way around town Tuesday, the community showed its gratitude with a warm smile and sincere “thank you” at every stop.“I appreciate what they’re doing,” Kearney resident Jean Johnson said. “I think it’s wonderful. They’re helping out the city and the people who live here.”

UNK wrestlers become delivery drivers to support community, Hot Meals USA

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Two community-transmitted cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were identified today – One in Lancaster County and one in Saunders County. Both cases were reported yesterday. Another community transmitted case was identified yesterday in Sarpy County. Community transmission is when people have COVID-19 but public health officials are unable to identify how or where they became infected.

Governor Pete Ricketts announced a second COVID-19 related state Directed Health Measure (DHM) that includes Lancaster, Dodge, and Saunders counties, which will be in effect until May 6 unless renewed.&nbsp;Washington County will also now be under a DHM until May 6. For more information, go to -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjYuMTkzMDg0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9wcmVzcy9nb3Ytcmlja2V0dHMtYWRkcy1sYW5jYXN0ZXItc2F1bmRlcnMtYW5kLWRvZGdlLWRpcmVjdGVkLWhlYWx0aC1tZWFzdXJlLWNhc3MtZG91Z2xhcy1zYXJweSJ9.-a1ycgaPd-3rY1wXIn5fWPwCff-ghh0BNwpUyUnG1Zk%2Fbr%2F76639550219-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853518580&amp;sdata=HGs1hdoK9V1hi94RjhCFL6TrhiFdR5d8Y09OQ16REBE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-adds-lancaster-saunders-and-dodge-directed-health-measure-cass-douglas-sarpy</a>. Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department ordered Directed Health Measures to further limit the opportunity for community spread of COVID-19. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjYuMTkzMDg0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5saW5jb2xuLm5lLmdvdi8ifQ.V58935__QmY73VYR0mEk9n6Q1imANhHAk6P-y_gUQEo%2Fbr%2F76639550219-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853518580&amp;sdata=9h%2F7nyv9NXQICg12XuCjhKljqvMrWwW3%2FzXd7k5J6vU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/</a>.

Five additional COVID-19 cases were also identified in Nebraska. New cases include:

The state total as of tonight is 68*. One case was removed from the state total due to the person residing in a different state.

People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.

Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.

People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;

Recent data shows that the virus is also affecting younger people. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report said 20% of those hospitalized for COVID-19 in the U.S. were 20-44 years old.

Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;

Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fdhhs.ne.gov%252Fcoronavirus%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DOWKoYpNQt-PdHqXDs3t9sCGKsfwf4zoXmdKSceErz7k&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853558400&amp;sdata=fpNHPmAp5P9f%2F6Z2hr%2BaUOiAYteuoxtSI3%2Bv5M4V3v0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853558400&amp;sdata=OJmlrhEykUsU4G32HViDCkJrcH%2FdAQ4PKCHA3R6D84M%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;

DHHS opened a statewide coronavirus (COVID-19) information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 7 days a week.

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853568355&amp;sdata=%2Fa8YbP4kjuri7MKoMKOc2rmW3eHZP5auL%2Fsiw4REji8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

*State and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS cases and cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date. Also, if a case is reported and it’s determined the person isn’t a resident of that particular county, it will be moved to the appropriate county. If it’s determined a person isn’t a resident of Nebraska, the case will be removed from the case count.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Two community-transmitted cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were identified today – One in Lancaster County and one in Saunders County. Both cases were reported yesterday. Another community transmitted case was identified yesterday in Sarpy County. Community transmission is when people have COVID-19 but public health officials are unable to identify how or where they became infected.Governor Pete Ricketts announced a second COVID-19 related state Directed Health Measure (DHM) that includes Lancaster, Dodge, and Saunders counties, which will be in effect until May 6 unless renewed.&nbsp;Washington County will also now be under a DHM until May 6. For more information, go to -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjYuMTkzMDg0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9wcmVzcy9nb3Ytcmlja2V0dHMtYWRkcy1sYW5jYXN0ZXItc2F1bmRlcnMtYW5kLWRvZGdlLWRpcmVjdGVkLWhlYWx0aC1tZWFzdXJlLWNhc3MtZG91Z2xhcy1zYXJweSJ9.-a1ycgaPd-3rY1wXIn5fWPwCff-ghh0BNwpUyUnG1Zk%2Fbr%2F76639550219-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853518580&amp;sdata=HGs1hdoK9V1hi94RjhCFL6TrhiFdR5d8Y09OQ16REBE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-adds-lancaster-saunders-and-dodge-directed-health-measure-cass-douglas-sarpy</a>. Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department ordered Directed Health Measures to further limit the opportunity for community spread of COVID-19. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjYuMTkzMDg0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5saW5jb2xuLm5lLmdvdi8ifQ.V58935__QmY73VYR0mEk9n6Q1imANhHAk6P-y_gUQEo%2Fbr%2F76639550219-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853518580&amp;sdata=9h%2F7nyv9NXQICg12XuCjhKljqvMrWwW3%2FzXd7k5J6vU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/</a>.Five additional COVID-19 cases were also identified in Nebraska. New cases include:<ol>
 <li>A woman in her 40s from Dodge County who is self-isolating at home.</li><li>A woman in her 60s from Washington County who is self-isolating at home.&nbsp; Contact investigations were completed in both of these cases and those identified as close contacts were notified. All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.</li><li>A woman in her 50s from Saunders County who is self-isolating at home and a close contact investigation is underway.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Two cases are Douglas County residents. One is a woman in her 30s. The other is a woman in her 40s and a close contact investigation is underway. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjYuMTkzMDg0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb3VnbGFzY291bnR5aGVhbHRoLmNvbS9sYXRlc3QtbmV3cyJ9.4Si5JIabHB38iBiRrc82pjydtSfB5q7rtZ3d3gqfhDU%2Fbr%2F76639550219-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853528532&amp;sdata=LaIqL1WcpX4Ap4wL1Z9iHNOHCQ38bVS5SnbMPjkPBqA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>.</li>
 </ol>The state total as of tonight is 68*. One case was removed from the state total due to the person residing in a different state.People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523Have-supplies-on-hand%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dip8Sugu61fdoR3_ctcDwfNxCHFaDvy6DiQUXzw66ljY&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853528532&amp;sdata=TEnGW6zONYuIX%2Fi7JBrw%2BpxjqI42tzXVGjQ%2ByoTPhi8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Stock up on supplies</a>, including extra necessary medications.</li><li>Take&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523take-everyday-precautions%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DaDIDsLdK1xHORdoVvnOclR953vTCfa0o-VFCHX2HR7c&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853538488&amp;sdata=kni1wTfEsaytHbQ9UT1ESgqPzKR5ABKR6bygNotnkEw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">everyday precautions</a>&nbsp;to keep space between yourself and others.</li><li>When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.</li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523avoid-crowds%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3D430s9GZp-u_cCicwxuwTNRFqso8jlQQLpAbEE1sElZY&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853538488&amp;sdata=sR%2FTuJBfKBFZjX%2BHPTO6JEyvxSqVZa8fFL6gzVbZ4KY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Avoid crowds</a>&nbsp;as much as possible.</li><li>Avoid&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwwwnc.cdc.gov%252Ftravel%252Fpage%252Fcovid-19-cruise-ship%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DLIiV4jvrAjF3-LvB-W4Fig9s8RisgM2TUJ4kkR0TAnA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853548445&amp;sdata=GXlx9r%2FLFLe9LHtu9ChNBUXihq9YkSZ0Yba8fOyWyB4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">cruise travel</a>&nbsp;and non-essential air travel.</li><li>If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523stay-home%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DM0n35neS-gR_rUKvB-nFbMa5ENMnuXRS-P6j8t8p62E&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853548445&amp;sdata=Qvue7M5LTwm3%2F3Yo01s1EOUccvPqU84iLMbZDYX0qvE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">stay home</a>&nbsp;as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.</li>
 </ol>Recent data shows that the virus is also affecting younger people. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report said 20% of those hospitalized for COVID-19 in the U.S. were 20-44 years old.Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Avoiding close contact with sick people and stay home if you are sick.</li><li>Washing hands often with soap and water&nbsp;for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth&nbsp;with unwashed hands.</li><li>Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or&nbsp;sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Cleaning and disinfecting frequently&nbsp;touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fdhhs.ne.gov%252Fcoronavirus%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DOWKoYpNQt-PdHqXDs3t9sCGKsfwf4zoXmdKSceErz7k&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853558400&amp;sdata=fpNHPmAp5P9f%2F6Z2hr%2BaUOiAYteuoxtSI3%2Bv5M4V3v0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853558400&amp;sdata=OJmlrhEykUsU4G32HViDCkJrcH%2FdAQ4PKCHA3R6D84M%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;DHHS opened a statewide coronavirus (COVID-19) information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd0c251538a8a4f51467808d7d12c6193%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207860853568355&amp;sdata=%2Fa8YbP4kjuri7MKoMKOc2rmW3eHZP5auL%2Fsiw4REji8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.*State and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS cases and cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date. Also, if a case is reported and it’s determined the person isn’t a resident of that particular county, it will be moved to the appropriate county. If it’s determined a person isn’t a resident of Nebraska, the case will be removed from the case count.

Officials report 2 new community-spread cases of COVID-19 in Nebraska

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts welcomed the news that the Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued a statewide economic injury declaration for Nebraska.&nbsp; The declaration qualifies small businesses throughout the state to apply for SBA disaster assistance loans.

“As Nebraska steps up its efforts to combat coronavirus, we’ve limited the size of public gatherings and asked people to stay home when possible,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“These temporary measures are vitally important to public health, but they present challenges for the day-to-day operations of many small businesses.&nbsp; Nebraska is grateful to the SBA and Administrator Carranza for offering much-needed financial assistance to our hard-working store owners and entrepreneurs at this time.”

“The hard work and creativity of Nebraska’s small business owners enrich our communities and grows our state,” said Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Tony Goins.&nbsp; “SBA loans will give small businesses the needed financial resources to weather the current pandemic and will set them up to thrive throughout the rest of 2020.”

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer low-interest rates and long-term repayment options.&nbsp; Specific terms are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Small businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size can apply for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fdisasterloan.sba.gov%2Fela&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cfb3b35c940ca432d25d208d7cd152f65%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203363183963401&amp;sdata=%2FakrVt3Co7Uxqfbyi%2FTW7umjOC35JAyjv0XSJr8CS7w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">disasterloan.sba.gov/ela</a>.&nbsp; Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:disastercustomerservice@sba.gov">disastercustomerservice@sba.gov</a>.&nbsp;

The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has teammates available to assist businesses with their questions. &nbsp;Contact information for DED’s regional development team can be found on DED’s COVID-19 website at&nbsp;<a href="http://opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19</a>.&nbsp; The webpage also has information on SBA resources.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts welcomed the news that the Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued a statewide economic injury declaration for Nebraska.&nbsp; The declaration qualifies small businesses throughout the state to apply for SBA disaster assistance loans.“As Nebraska steps up its efforts to combat coronavirus, we’ve limited the size of public gatherings and asked people to stay home when possible,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“These temporary measures are vitally important to public health, but they present challenges for the day-to-day operations of many small businesses.&nbsp; Nebraska is grateful to the SBA and Administrator Carranza for offering much-needed financial assistance to our hard-working store owners and entrepreneurs at this time.”“The hard work and creativity of Nebraska’s small business owners enrich our communities and grows our state,” said Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Tony Goins.&nbsp; “SBA loans will give small businesses the needed financial resources to weather the current pandemic and will set them up to thrive throughout the rest of 2020.”SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer low-interest rates and long-term repayment options.&nbsp; Specific terms are determined on a case-by-case basis.Small businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size can apply for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fdisasterloan.sba.gov%2Fela&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cfb3b35c940ca432d25d208d7cd152f65%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203363183963401&amp;sdata=%2FakrVt3Co7Uxqfbyi%2FTW7umjOC35JAyjv0XSJr8CS7w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">disasterloan.sba.gov/ela</a>.&nbsp; Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:disastercustomerservice@sba.gov">disastercustomerservice@sba.gov</a>.&nbsp;The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has teammates available to assist businesses with their questions. &nbsp;Contact information for DED’s regional development team can be found on DED’s COVID-19 website at&nbsp;<a href="http://opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19</a>.&nbsp; The webpage also has information on SBA resources.

Governor Ricketts announces eligibility of Nebraska businesses to apply for SBA disaster loans

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two more COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68, officials said.

The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/91b05abf7280c070bbd4ed3f185f97e7" target="_blank">relief package</a>&nbsp;to help public health officials respond to the coronavirus pandemic. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.

Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird announced a ban on gatherings larger than 10 as well as rules that will force the closure of salons, massage parlors, tattoo shops and other places where people spend time close together.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two more COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68, officials said.The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/91b05abf7280c070bbd4ed3f185f97e7" target="_blank">relief package</a>&nbsp;to help public health officials respond to the coronavirus pandemic. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.The governor also added Lancaster, Dodge and Saunders counties to the list of places where restaurants and bars will have to close their dining rooms because of the health risk. Similar restrictions were already in place for Douglas, Sarpy, Cass and Washington counties. Combined, all of those counties account for more than 1.1 million people and well over half of the state's population.Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird announced a ban on gatherings larger than 10 as well as rules that will force the closure of salons, massage parlors, tattoo shops and other places where people spend time close together.

Officials say number of Nebraska COVID-19 cases rose again

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate passed an unparalleled $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic.

The unanimous vote Wednesday came despite misgivings on both sides about whether it goes too far or not far enough and capped days of difficult negotiations as Washington confronted a national challenge unlike it has ever faced.

The 880-page measure is the largest economic relief bill in U.S. history. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared somber and exhausted as he announced the vote — and he released senators from Washington until April 20, though he promised to recall them if needed.

“The legislation now before us now is historic because it is meant to match a historic crisis,” said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. “Our health care system is not prepared to care for the sick. Our workers are without work. Our businesses cannot do business. Our factories lie idle. The gears of the American economy have ground to a halt.”

The package is intended as relief for an economy spiraling into recession or worse and a nation facing a grim toll from an infection that’s killed more than 21,000 people worldwide. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, asked how long the aid would keep the economy afloat, said: “We’ve anticipated three months. Hopefully, we won’t need this for three months.”

Underscoring the effort’s sheer magnitude, the bill finances a response with a price tag that equals half the size of the entire $4 trillion-plus annual federal budget. The $2.2 trillion estimate is the White House’s best guess.

Insistently optimistic, President Donald Trump said of the greatest public health emergency in anyone’s lifetime, “I don’t think its going to end up being such a rough patch” and anticipated the economy soaring “like a rocket ship” when it’s over.

“The government has temporarily shut down the economy because of this disease, and the government must help those who are hurt by it,” said Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn.

The drive by leaders to speed the bill through the Senate was slowed as four conservative Republican senators from states whose economies are dominated by low-wage jobs demanded changes, saying the legislation as written might give workers like store clerks incentives to stay on unemployment instead of return to their jobs since they may earn more money if they’re laid off than if they’re working. They settled for a failed vote to modify the provision.

Other objections floated in from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who has become a prominent Democrat on the national scene as the country battles the pandemic. Cuomo, whose state has seen more deaths from the pandemic than any other, said, “I’m telling you, these numbers don’t work.”

Ardent liberals like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were restless as well, but top Washington Democrats assured them that additional coronavirus legislation will follow this spring and signaled that delaying the pending measure would be foolish.

The sprawling measure is the third coronavirus response bill produced by Congress and by far the largest. It builds on efforts focused on vaccines and emergency response, sick and family medical leave for workers and food aid.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., swung behind the bipartisan agreement, saying it “takes us a long way down the road in meeting the needs of the American people.”

Senate passage delivered the legislation to the Democratic-controlled House, which is expected to pass it Friday. House members are scattered around the country. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said the measure would pass by voice vote without lawmakers having to return to Washington.

The package would give direct payments to most Americans, expand unemployment benefits and provide a $367 billion program for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home.

It includes a heavily negotiated $500 billion program for guaranteed, subsidized loans to larger industries, including airlines. Hospitals would get significant help as well.

Six days of arduous talks produced the bill, creating tensions among Congress’ top leaders, who each took care to tend to party politics as they maneuvered and battled over crafting the legislation. But failure was not an option — nor was starting over — which permitted both sides to include their priorities.

“This is a proud moment for the United States Senate and the country, and we’re going to win this battle,” McConnell told reporters afterward. “We’ve pivoted from impeachment to 100-to-nothing on this rescue package … this is about as flawless as you could possibly be.” The vote actually was 96-0 because several members missed the vote out of concerns they have been exposed to the virus.

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has tested positive for it, while GOP Whip John Thune returned to South Dakota on Wednesday after feeling ill.

The bill would provide one-time direct payments to Americans of $1,200 per adult making up to $75,000 a year and $2,400 to a married couple making up to $150,000, with $500 payments per child.

A huge cash infusion for hospitals expecting a flood of COVID-19 patients grew during the talks to an estimated $130 billion. Another $45 billion would fund additional relief through the Federal Emergency Management Agency for local response efforts and community services.

Democrats said the package would help replace the salaries of furloughed workers for four months, rather than the three months first proposed. Furloughed workers would get whatever amount a state usually provides for unemployment, plus a $600-per-week add-on, with gig workers like Uber drivers covered for the first time.

Businesses controlled by members of Congress and top administration officials, including Trump and his immediate family members, would be ineligible for the bill’s business assistance.

Schumer boasted of negotiating wins for transit systems, hospitals and cash-hungry state governments that were cemented after Democrats blocked the measure in votes held Sunday and Monday.

But Cuomo said the Senate package would send less than $4 billion to New York, far short of his estimate that the crisis will cost his state up to $15 billion over the next year. More than 280 New Yorkers have died from the virus, a death toll more than double that of any other state.

Still, Pelosi said the need for more money for New York is “no reason to stop the step we are taking.”

Pelosi was a force behind $400 million in grants to states to expand voting by mail and other steps that Democrats billed as making voting safer but Republican critics called political opportunism. The package also contains $15.5 billion more for a surge in demand for food stamps as part of a massive $330 billion title for agency operations.

State and local authorities would receive up to $150 billion in grants to fight the virus, care for their residents and provide basic services.

Republicans won inclusion of an employee retention tax credit that’s estimated to provide $50 billion to companies that retain employees on payroll and cover 50% of workers’ paycheck up to $10,000. Companies would also be able to defer payment of the 6.2% Social Security payroll tax.

A companion appropriations package ballooned as well, growing from a $46 billion White House proposal to $330 billion, which dwarfs earlier disasters — including Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy combined.

Europe is enacting its own economic recovery packages, with huge amounts of credit guarantees, government spending and other support.

Germany, Europe’s biggest economy, has agreed to commit more than 1 trillion euros ($1.1 trillion) in fiscal stimulus and support — roughly 30% of that nation’s entire annual output. France, Spain and Italy have launched similar programs.

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

In the United States, more than 69,000 people have been sickened and more than 1,000 have died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585219043906.png" alt="View of the the U.S. Senate floor as they passed the $2 Trillion Coronavirus Economic Stimulus Bill, 96-0.&nbsp; -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>View of the the U.S. Senate floor as they passed the $2 Trillion Coronavirus Economic Stimulus Bill, 96-0.&nbsp; -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate passed an unparalleled $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The CARES Act provides one of the most powerful and timely economic relief packages in our nation&#39;s history and I&#39;m glad the Senate finally passed this crucial legislation. <a href="https://t.co/80GnZCiJL2">https://t.co/80GnZCiJL2</a> <a href="https://t.co/KTIM9td6UR">pic.twitter.com/KTIM9td6UR</a>&mdash; Senator Pat Roberts (@SenPatRoberts) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenPatRoberts/status/1243024323746684928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The unanimous vote Wednesday came despite misgivings on both sides about whether it goes too far or not far enough and capped days of difficult negotiations as Washington confronted a national challenge unlike it has ever faced.The 880-page measure is the largest economic relief bill in U.S. history. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared somber and exhausted as he announced the vote — and he released senators from Washington until April 20, though he promised to recall them if needed.“The legislation now before us now is historic because it is meant to match a historic crisis,” said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. “Our health care system is not prepared to care for the sick. Our workers are without work. Our businesses cannot do business. Our factories lie idle. The gears of the American economy have ground to a halt.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: The Senate just passed the CARES Act, Phase III of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> relief efforts. Our country is facing a pandemic, and we must act now to make certain Kansans have the support they need to weather this storm.&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1243033520160804869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The package is intended as relief for an economy spiraling into recession or worse and a nation facing a grim toll from an infection that’s killed more than 21,000 people worldwide. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, asked how long the aid would keep the economy afloat, said: “We’ve anticipated three months. Hopefully, we won’t need this for three months.”Underscoring the effort’s sheer magnitude, the bill finances a response with a price tag that equals half the size of the entire $4 trillion-plus annual federal budget. The $2.2 trillion estimate is the White House’s best guess.Insistently optimistic, President Donald Trump said of the greatest public health emergency in anyone’s lifetime, “I don’t think its going to end up being such a rough patch” and anticipated the economy soaring “like a rocket ship” when it’s over.“The government has temporarily shut down the economy because of this disease, and the government must help those who are hurt by it,” said Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn.The drive by leaders to speed the bill through the Senate was slowed as four conservative Republican senators from states whose economies are dominated by low-wage jobs demanded changes, saying the legislation as written might give workers like store clerks incentives to stay on unemployment instead of return to their jobs since they may earn more money if they’re laid off than if they’re working. They settled for a failed vote to modify the provision.Other objections floated in from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who has become a prominent Democrat on the national scene as the country battles the pandemic. Cuomo, whose state has seen more deaths from the pandemic than any other, said, “I’m telling you, these numbers don’t work.”Ardent liberals like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were restless as well, but top Washington Democrats assured them that additional coronavirus legislation will follow this spring and signaled that delaying the pending measure would be foolish.The sprawling measure is the third coronavirus response bill produced by Congress and by far the largest. It builds on efforts focused on vaccines and emergency response, sick and family medical leave for workers and food aid.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., swung behind the bipartisan agreement, saying it “takes us a long way down the road in meeting the needs of the American people.”Senate passage delivered the legislation to the Democratic-controlled House, which is expected to pass it Friday. House members are scattered around the country. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said the measure would pass by voice vote without lawmakers having to return to Washington.The package would give direct payments to most Americans, expand unemployment benefits and provide a $367 billion program for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home.It includes a heavily negotiated $500 billion program for guaranteed, subsidized loans to larger industries, including airlines. Hospitals would get significant help as well.Six days of arduous talks produced the bill, creating tensions among Congress’ top leaders, who each took care to tend to party politics as they maneuvered and battled over crafting the legislation. But failure was not an option — nor was starting over — which permitted both sides to include their priorities.“This is a proud moment for the United States Senate and the country, and we’re going to win this battle,” McConnell told reporters afterward. “We’ve pivoted from impeachment to 100-to-nothing on this rescue package … this is about as flawless as you could possibly be.” The vote actually was 96-0 because several members missed the vote out of concerns they have been exposed to the virus.Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has tested positive for it, while GOP Whip John Thune returned to South Dakota on Wednesday after feeling ill.The bill would provide one-time direct payments to Americans of $1,200 per adult making up to $75,000 a year and $2,400 to a married couple making up to $150,000, with $500 payments per child.A huge cash infusion for hospitals expecting a flood of COVID-19 patients grew during the talks to an estimated $130 billion. Another $45 billion would fund additional relief through the Federal Emergency Management Agency for local response efforts and community services.Democrats said the package would help replace the salaries of furloughed workers for four months, rather than the three months first proposed. Furloughed workers would get whatever amount a state usually provides for unemployment, plus a $600-per-week add-on, with gig workers like Uber drivers covered for the first time.Businesses controlled by members of Congress and top administration officials, including Trump and his immediate family members, would be ineligible for the bill’s business assistance.Schumer boasted of negotiating wins for transit systems, hospitals and cash-hungry state governments that were cemented after Democrats blocked the measure in votes held Sunday and Monday.But Cuomo said the Senate package would send less than $4 billion to New York, far short of his estimate that the crisis will cost his state up to $15 billion over the next year. More than 280 New Yorkers have died from the virus, a death toll more than double that of any other state.Still, Pelosi said the need for more money for New York is “no reason to stop the step we are taking.”Pelosi was a force behind $400 million in grants to states to expand voting by mail and other steps that Democrats billed as making voting safer but Republican critics called political opportunism. The package also contains $15.5 billion more for a surge in demand for food stamps as part of a massive $330 billion title for agency operations.State and local authorities would receive up to $150 billion in grants to fight the virus, care for their residents and provide basic services.Republicans won inclusion of an employee retention tax credit that’s estimated to provide $50 billion to companies that retain employees on payroll and cover 50% of workers’ paycheck up to $10,000. Companies would also be able to defer payment of the 6.2% Social Security payroll tax.A companion appropriations package ballooned as well, growing from a $46 billion White House proposal to $330 billion, which dwarfs earlier disasters — including Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy combined.Europe is enacting its own economic recovery packages, with huge amounts of credit guarantees, government spending and other support.Germany, Europe’s biggest economy, has agreed to commit more than 1 trillion euros ($1.1 trillion) in fiscal stimulus and support — roughly 30% of that nation’s entire annual output. France, Spain and Italy have launched similar programs.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.In the United States, more than 69,000 people have been sickened and more than 1,000 have died.

Senate unanimously passes massive coronavirus aid plan

LINCOLN-As parents and student adjust to their new way of life and learning, Nebraska top education official says schools should not reopen this school year. Commissioner of Education Matthew Blomstedt sent a letter to school superintendents statewide, recommending that schools not return to normal operations for the remainder of the 2019/2020 school year. Blomstedt made it clear that this was a strong recommendation, but not something he could require under Nebraska law. That action, however, could be taken by Governor Pete Ricketts or the state Department of Health and Human Services. Most schools in the North Platte area have already started to transition to remote learning for students. However, some schools were operating under normal conditions as of Wednesday. Blomstedt says the recommendation is supported by Governor Ricketts and state health officials.

LINCOLN-As parents and student adjust to their new way of life and learning, Nebraska top education official says schools should not reopen this school year. Commissioner of Education Matthew Blomstedt sent a letter to school superintendents statewide, recommending that schools not return to normal operations for the remainder of the 2019/2020 school year. Blomstedt made it clear that this was a strong recommendation, but not something he could require under Nebraska law. That action, however, could be taken by Governor Pete Ricketts or the state Department of Health and Human Services. Most schools in the North Platte area have already started to transition to remote learning for students. However, some schools were operating under normal conditions as of Wednesday. Blomstedt says the recommendation is supported by Governor Ricketts and state health officials.

Nebraska Education Commissioner: Schools should not return to normal operations this school year

Governor Pete Ricketts’ Office&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">Gov. Ricketts’s news releases</a>

NEW&nbsp;Please consider subscribing to the Governor's Office news release list to stay up-to-date on new information released from the Governor’s office. You can subscribe by visiting:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpublic.govdelivery.com%2Faccounts%2FNEGOV%2Fsubscriber%2Fnew&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677700967399&amp;sdata=DWO98NpgumKUxAlveSaCrF4ZAYqXJQwykCnYhSgssF8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/NEGOV/subscriber/new</a>

The Governor has been holding daily news conferences at 2 p.m. to address the state’s #COVID19 response. The news conferences are live streamed at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnetnebraska.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677700977348&amp;sdata=hxGKqlqAjbCBag1GNJFlS5McW7ISxbBhfEV4Cc0%2FT48%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://netnebraska.org/</a>&nbsp;(scroll down to today’s live streaming section.)&nbsp; Today Gov. Ricketts is encouraged people to donate blood as the American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as many blood drives have being cancelled across the country due to COVID-19 concerns. Nebraskans can ensure an available blood supply by safely donating today. Schedule and appointment at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcrossblood.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677700977348&amp;sdata=84ujt3aHsZEzacnUohvJll2EubdZ9YLnim9W3tgiFHc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">redcrossblood.org/</a>.

Gov. Ricketts said he is pleased that Nebraskans are coming together and doing the right thing by following the guidelines of limiting public gatherings to 10 people or fewer.

The Nebraska Legislature advanced LB1198 to provide $83.6 million to the Governor's Emergency Fund to aid in the fight of the COVID-19 virus spread.

The money will go to the Department of Health and Human Services and the University of Nebraska Medical Center for such things as medical and laboratory equipment, personal protective equipment, UV light boxes, staffing and testing. The money will go from the state's rainy day fund to the governor's emergency fund to the military department for a new program: the Governor's Emergency Program — COVID-19.

Small Business Administration Designation:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2Ffunding-programs%2Fdisaster-assistance&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677700977348&amp;sdata=QBbiVGbAlGhK3ouhROu0HQE0%2F3G0mBYOa%2BObRGzx9b0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">SBA.gov/disaster</a>

o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Call 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800-877-8339) or

o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;E-mail&nbsp;<a href="mailto:disastercustomerservice@sba.gov?subject=SBA%20loans%20Nebraska" target="_blank">disastercustomerservice@sba.gov</a>.

Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department Orders Directed Health Measures&nbsp;<a href="https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/" target="_blank">https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/</a>&nbsp;In response to a third lab-confirmed case of COVID-19 in a community acquired case, a Directed Health Measure has been ordered in Lancaster County effective at 8 a.m. Thursday, March 26. For more information visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf" target="_blank">https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf</a>

Department of Health and Human Services&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx#SectionLink7" target="_blank">COVID-19 Information</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/News-Releases.aspx" target="_blank">DHHS News Releases</a>

NEW&nbsp;The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) continues to identify significant numbers of COVID-19 infections in people who recently traveled to other areas of the U.S. or internationally, with spread to other Nebraskans. Data shows more than 80 percent of confirmed cases in the state are either travel related or by close contact with someone who recently traveled. Check out the DHHS news release on&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Recommendations-for-Travelers-Returning-to-Nebraska-to-Limit-COVID-19-Spread.aspx" target="_blank">Recommendations for Travelers Returning to Nebraska to Limit COVID-19 Spread</a>.

DHHS and its partners continue to track the unfolding outbreak of respiratory illness caused COVID-19 and anticipate its impact on Nebraska and its health care system.&nbsp;Nebraska case information&nbsp;is updated as new numbers are available on the&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx#SectionLink7" target="_blank">DHHS website.</a>

Current case numbers are:&nbsp;64 positives; 1,304 negatives&nbsp;as of 2&nbsp;p.m. 3/25/20 (Numbers now include negative results from NPHL and commercial labs).

Gov. Pete Ricketts Dr. Gary Anthone, chief medical officer for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and Dr. Matthew L. Blomstedt, commissioner of education for Nebraska will answer questions during a one-hour NET News town hall meeting about COVID-19 and Nebraska’s response during a&nbsp;special episode of the discussion program "<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnetnebraska.org%2Fbasic-page%2Fnews%2Fspeaking-nebraska&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677700987307&amp;sdata=hEC5yzdJ9xd7sX4G9%2FhdxJ%2F0D6rTZIHbRv0YttjAh8A%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Speaking of Nebraska</a>"&nbsp;which will air Thursday at 7 p.m. CT on NET, NET Radio and streaming online.&nbsp;

DHHS reminds you of the importance of&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Flattening-the-Curve-History-Tells-Us-Why-Community-Mitigation-Strategies-Matter.aspx" target="_blank">Flattening The Curve - History Tells Us Why Community Mitigation Strategies Matter</a>

The Nebraska COVID-19 Information Line is&nbsp;(402) 552-6645.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST – every day.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State agencies are sharing information using the&nbsp;#NECOVID19 Hashtag

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS has produced COVID-19 Public Service Announcements which are available in&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DPb-4Ntbfz-s%26feature%3Dyoutu.be&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677700997256&amp;sdata=Pm%2Bzkk9MYDhPhbrxZYEHKcPO2gLkPJoooWesvv%2Bw2Nk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">English</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DpgrXzj9Th7M&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677700997256&amp;sdata=t%2FiJ0hsHha7SR6ICebi%2BM5T29GiIjER0DbxjTpRAvUs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">En Español</a>

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Health Care Provider Information&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Health-Alert-Network.aspx" target="_blank">(HAN)</a>

Nebraska Emergency Management Agency&nbsp;<a href="https://nema.nebraska.gov/news" target="_blank">https://nema.nebraska.gov/news</a>

NEW&nbsp;With the effective end of the school year, future Directed Health Measures will be implemented by Public Health Boundaries rather than ESU boundaries.

Businesses and individuals&nbsp;do not&nbsp;need to be placed on an essential business or worker list with the State of Nebraska. Businesses have been asked to follow the rules of limiting gatherings to 10 or fewer people and individuals should continue to practice social distancing when meeting in these small groups. No travel restrictions have been imposed at this time.

Department of Corrections&nbsp;<a href="https://corrections.nebraska.gov/ndcs-coronavirus-health-update" target="_blank">https://corrections.nebraska.gov/ndcs-coronavirus-health-update</a>

NEW&nbsp;NDCS Director Scott R. Frakes and Medical Director Dr. Harbans Deol talk about the agency's latest efforts to minimize the transmission of COVID-19 in a new video aired today on the agency’s COVID-19&nbsp;<a href="https://corrections.nebraska.gov/ndcs-coronavirus-health-update" target="_blank">webpage</a>.

Department of Economic Development&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19/" target="_blank">https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19/</a>

DED is working to inform and assist businesses during Nebraska’s ongoing response to COVID-19. Information for businesses is available on the DED website. DED is committed to serving Nebraskans facing financial challenges during this time, and understands that local economic leaders will play an important role in creating regional solutions for businesses and their workforce. The department’s Field Services Team is working with business leaders in these regions to address ongoing COVID-19 challenges.&nbsp;

Department of Environment and Energy&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/" target="_blank">http://dee.ne.gov</a>

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s Wastewater Division would like to remind people that sanitizing wipes, baby wipes and even “flushable” wipes are not flushable — regardless of what the product states. Flushed wipes cause sewer system blockages, resulting in overflows from manholes and basement backups. This can lead to expensive repairs and damage to your municipal systems or homes. Please throw sanitizing wipes in the trash.

Department of Labor&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://dol.nebraska.gov/UIBenefits" target="_blank">Unemployment Insurance Information</a>

Unemployment claims should be filed online at&nbsp;<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or on the free NEworks mobile app. For more information visit:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://dol.nebraska.gov/stc" target="_blank">Short-Time Compensation</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://dol.nebraska.gov/PressRelease/Details/141" target="_blank">FAQs</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://dol.nebraska.gov/PressRelease/Details/141" target="_blank">https://dol.nebraska.gov/PressRelease/Details/141</a>

Department of Motor Vehicles&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://dmv.nebraska.gov/about/news-releases" target="_blank">DMV news releases</a>

The DMV has generated a series of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) documents to assist customers with how the Governor’s recent executive order may impact them. Answers to specific questions can be found under the News Releases section of the DMV website&nbsp;<a href="https://dmv.nebraska.gov/news/governors-executive-order-faqs" target="_blank">here</a>.

Department of Revenue&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjQuMTkyMzIyNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3JldmVudWUubmVicmFza2EuZ292L3NpdGVzL3JldmVudWUubmVicmFza2EuZ292L2ZpbGVzL2RvYy9sZWdhbC9ydWxpbmdzL3JyOTkyMDFfc2lnbmF0dXJlX3JlcXVpcmVtZW50cy5wZGYifQ.fYy-J_jZS69OPZHZ4ljuLh9rGzKdErbx1aOqHKs5e7w%2Fbr%2F76553325640-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701007218&amp;sdata=5B79i2Yc52kLgcaJy9P0xCE6b8tFqhlYmUTSUb6h4QI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Revenue Ruling 99-20-1: All Nebraska Taxes, Signature Requirements</a>

The Nebraska Department of Revenue (DOR) has issued new guidance with specific instructions and information regarding signature requirements, which will assist taxpayers, especially in situations where the individuals responsible for signing tax returns are working from home to prevent the spread of COVID-19. For most forms and filings, for which there is no separate DOR taxpayer filing system, DOR will accept as a taxpayer signature, any mark, handwritten or digitally rendered that is applied with actual or apparent intention to authenticate the filing.

Lottery&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnelottery.com%2Fhomeapp%2Farticle%2F4220%2Fdisplay&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701007218&amp;sdata=XMoVVA0HAxmjxTWED7%2FC6mc0aVdave%2FJl6IGGFOD4eo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://nelottery.com/homeapp/article/4220/display</a>

Nebraska Lottery players with prizes up to $19,999 are encouraged to claim by mail. Instructions for claiming prizes by mail can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnelottery.com%2Fhomeapp%2Farticle%2F4220%2Fdisplay&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701017187&amp;sdata=MjHCH8k5KcIgJ7i%2FZtPsQls52EgE2328b26rLDmHnIU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://nelottery.com/homeapp/article/4220/display</a>&nbsp;Regional Lottery Claim Centers in Grand Island, Norfolk, North Platte, and Scottsbluff are closed to the public, but Nebraska Lottery headquarters in Lincoln and the Omaha Claim Center are open. Call 402-471-6100 to confirm office hours before claiming a prize in person at these locations.

<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nationalrtap.org%2FTechnical-Assistance%2FPeer-Roundtables-and-Chats&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701017187&amp;sdata=qF3U3cyUvW5BLBxoxOSOBv51Hkn6Ilir2n6%2BehnfYgo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">National RTAP - Transit Manager Peer Roundtable - COVID-19 Focus</a>

The National Rural Transit Assistance Program is hosting a peer roundtable on Thursday, March 26 from 1 to 2 p.m. CDT (12 to 1 p.m. MDT) for an informal discussion COVID-19 issues affecting rural transit managers. Ask questions of your peers and share your experience and lessons learned.

No need to register.&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nationalrtap.org%2FTechnical-Assistance%2FPeer-Roundtables-and-Chats&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701027128&amp;sdata=JGa1ovBLzhExQEiKgzVpb5rB%2BpRVFoi092rtFLBfZbE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">RSVP</a>&nbsp;to request a calendar invite or to suggest a topic.

Game and Parks&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Fhealthinfo%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701027128&amp;sdata=dGQ%2BKzQWrvRCrIbi%2BFTRVJQAQXxE%2BiycBpLHsFylxdw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://outdoornebraska.gov/healthinfo/</a>

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Game and Parks’ public buildings are temporarily closed to public walk-in traffic until further notice. A list can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Fhealthinfo%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701027128&amp;sdata=dGQ%2BKzQWrvRCrIbi%2BFTRVJQAQXxE%2BiycBpLHsFylxdw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://outdoornebraska.gov/healthinfo/</a>

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All events and activities are cancelled through May 31 or until further notice.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State parks and recreation areas grounds remain open for day-use, fishing and recreation. &nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Park permits, fishing permits, and hunting permits should be purchased in advance online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ngpc-home.ne.gov/" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In a proactive state and national effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the health of its customers and staff, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is closing viewing blinds to public access.&nbsp;The commission aims to protect its staff and customers by removing opportunities for crowds to gather at facilities and events and by maintaining clean areas that are available to the public.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Enjoying the crane migration is available by using several driving routes from North Platte to Hershey. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area has a scenic drive-through where cranes can be seen flying across the North Platte River and feeding in the adjacent meadows. Early mornings and late evenings, you can watch the cranes fly over the North Platte River at Cody Park in North Platte. The North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau has a self-guided Sandhill crane driving route brochure, which is available from their office located at 101 Halligan Drive, or online at&nbsp;<a href="file://stn/stnedfs$/NEMAHome$/jodie.fawl/~Documents/COVID-19/visitnorthplatte.com/outdoor-recreation/" target="_blank">visitnorthplatte.com/outdoor-recreation/</a>

Nebraska Attorney General’s Office&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/coronavirus-consumer-protection" target="_blank">COVID-19 Information</a>

NEW&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/news/attorneys-general-warn-online-marketplaces-aren%E2%80%99t-exempt-price-gouging-laws" target="_blank">Today, Attorney General Peterson joined a letter with 32 Attorneys General urging Amazon, Facebook, eBay, Walmart, and Craigslist to more rigorously monitor price gouging practices by online sellers using their services.</a>

Consumers may file a&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">consumer complaint</a>&nbsp;through the attorney general’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ago.consumer@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ago.consumer@nebraska.gov</a>.

NEW&nbsp;The Nebraska National Guard continues to support whole-of-government humanitarian efforts in response to COVID-19 pandemic by activating drill-status Guardsmen to provide planning support to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Governor’s Office. Starting this week, Soldiers and Airmen will work as liaison officers supporting planning for DHHS and the Governor’s Office. “These planners have a broad understanding of the Nebraska National Guard’s capabilities and will help inform leaders in our partner agencies as they make decisions,” said Col. Jan Behn, Nebraska National Guard director of joint operations.

The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) continues to encourage drivers to follow all traffic laws. Any motorist can report a dangerous driver by calling the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555.

Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office

Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, the Unclaimed Property Division offices are closed to the public. Treasurer’s Office staff are available by phone at 402-471-8497 or 877-572-9688 and will continue to process claims mailed into the Lincoln office or filed online.

Office of the Chief Information Officer&nbsp;<a href="https://cio.nebraska.gov/news/pressreleases/index.html" target="_blank">Website</a>

Malicious cyber threat actors are capitalizing on the global attention surrounding COVID-19 to facilitate scams, distribute malware, and send phishing emails. We ask all Nebraskans to practice the following safe security habits online:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exercise caution in handling any email with a COVID-19-related subject line, attachment or hyperlink, and be wary of social media pleas, texts or calls related to COVID-19. (Tips for Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.us-cert.gov%2Fncas%2Ftips%2FST04-014&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701037080&amp;sdata=xs5vpA948yW4QPDsv%2B1IrIsMDcpRmyffw4IppbhfG%2F4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.us-cert.gov/ncas/tips/ST04-014</a>)

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails and be wary of email attachments. (Tips for Using Caution with Email Attachments:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.us-cert.gov%2Fncas%2Ftips%2FST04-010&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C5bcae8d2d1bc47f3ce4b08d7d101ba42%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637207677701037080&amp;sdata=uRmRouAjIt%2B2x1GuQP%2BDyRBjq%2B42NkfeqBBlrhCX9X4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.us-cert.gov/ncas/tips/ST04-010</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Use trusted sources—such as legitimate, government websites—for up-to-date, fact-based information about COVID-19.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Look at the email address, not just the sender. A genuine email from a legitimate organization would have the organization’s name in the domain name, indicating that it is coming from someone at the organization.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Do not reveal personal or financial information in an email, and do not respond to email solicitations for this information.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verify a charity’s authenticity before making donations.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Look for obvious grammatical errors and be wary of any emails that have implied consequences for failure to comply with demands.

Coronavirus Update