Photo Courtesy of Gov. Reeves office
As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Mississippi, Governor Tate Reeves has extended the statewide ‘Safe Return’ order in an attempt to limit transmission.
According to a news release, Governor Reeves consulted with State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs and other state health experts to extend the order, which implements social distancing guidelines and restrictions for all businesses and social events, until 8:00 AM on Monday, July 6.
“The threat is far from over. Extending our Safe Return order will give us much-needed time to assess this rapidly-changing situation and adapt our response to slow the spread,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “We’re taking every step possible at the state-level to protect public health, but we can’t do it alone. The only way through this pandemic is together. I urge my fellow Mississippians to do their part to help limit transmission in their communities and take care of each other.”
Thursday, the MSDH reported 1,092 new COVID-19 cases – by far the state’s largest one-day rise. Later that day, Dr. Dobbs expressed concern for Mississippi’s healthcare system if the spread of the virus doesn’t slow down.
Governor Reeves also signed three additional executive orders today which his office explained.
“Working to ensure uninterrupted services and benefits for Mississippians throughout this pandemic, Governor Reeves also signed an additional three executive orders today. From extending the terms of interim or hold-over appointees until the end of the 2021 legislative session to extending unemployment benefits provided to Mississippi workers until the end of July 2020, the Governor is committed reducing the strain that this crisis has created on every aspect of Mississippians’ lives and livelihoods.”
You can view the signed executive orders here: Executive Order No. 1499, Executive Order No. 1500, Executive Order No 1501, Executive Order No. 1502.
