Rep. Bronna Kahle today voted in favor of a new emergency budget plan adding another $125 million to help the state of Michigan and local communities respond to coronavirus.

The measure brings the total state funding approved to $150 million, including the $25 million approved by the Legislature last week. The plan will provide $50 million for immediate needs such as virus monitoring and testing, $50 million for critical health care providers to expand capacity for coronavirus response, and $50 million to keep in reserve for when necessary.

The measure also will make it easier to use federal assistance related to coronavirus.

“This is another proactive step to help Lenawee County and the entire state respond to this unprecedented public health challenge,” said Kahle, of Adrian. “We are working together to get through this – and everyone must do their part to lessen the spread of this disease. Our families, friends and neighbors are counting on it.”

Kahle emphasized the emergency budget measure is designed to get resources to medical providers on the front lines of coronavirus response and to people who need the help most – with important transparency and oversight provisions to ensure funding is spent effectively and appropriately.

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Prevention steps include:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
• Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.

Reliable information about COVID-19 can be found at www.michigan.gov/Coronavirus and www.CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

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