State Rep. Mary Whiteford, of Casco Township, has voted in favor of a new emergency budget plan adding an additional $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.

“As elected officials, there’s no priority greater than the health and wellbeing of the people we represent,” said Whiteford, a registered nurse and chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services. “It’s imperative that we do all we can to get ahead of this virus and work together to prevent its further spread. I am so thankful for the many doctors, nurses, and other health care workers who have stepped up to provide quality care to the people of Michigan during this time of need.”

Whiteford said the best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure 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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