State Rep. Annette Glenn, R-Midland, commended the Michigan State Police for addressing the coronavirus in the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military and Veterans Affairs and State Police.

Rep. Glenn, who serves as chair of the committee, said it is important to hear from the MSP about steps currently being taken to mitigate the spread of the virus because of their role as the coordinator of resources to assist in the event of a state of emergency being declared.

“I know it’s a scary time right now, but it was reassuring to hear Col. Joseph Gasper, director of Michigan State Police, say officers are working hard with agencies throughout the state to combat the spread of this virus,” Rep. Glenn said. “Gasper recommends that people follow the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services guidelines to avoid spreading the disease, and said it’s definitely crucial employers encourage their workers stay home if they are sick.”

On Tuesday, the Michigan House voted for an emergency budget for $25 million to assist in the response to the potential health threats from the virus – $10 million for the state’s coronavirus response, and $15 million for a coronavirus fund if additional future funding is needed.

All state public universities have switched to online classes for now, St. Patrick’s Day events have been canceled throughout the state, including in Bay City, and President Donald Trump has even restricted travel to and from Europe.

Earlier this week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency after two cases of the virus were confirmed in Michigan. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has released a specific list of recommendations, including: washing hands often, avoiding crowds and closed-in settlings, having a plan in place for if a person should get sick, and watching for symptoms and emergency warning signs that require immediate medication attention.

“I encourage families in Midland and Bay counties to take the proper precautions and call my office if you have any questions,” Rep. Glenn said. “Your health and safety are my top priorities right now.”

Rep. Glenn can be contacted by phone at 517-373-1791 or by email [email protected].

People can also sign up for updates at Michigan.gov/coronavirus.

###