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Coronavirus Live Updates: Most States Balk at Trump’s Suggestion to Reopen Schools Coronavirus Live Updates: Most States Balk at Trump’s Suggestion to Reopen Schools
(32 minutes later)
After weeks without classes, a growing impatience to send children back to school has taken hold among many parents, students and President Trump, who suggested to governors on Monday that some might consider reopening districts before the end of the academic year.After weeks without classes, a growing impatience to send children back to school has taken hold among many parents, students and President Trump, who suggested to governors on Monday that some might consider reopening districts before the end of the academic year.
But only a few states are considering that possibility, while others have said that remote learning could continue into the fall.But only a few states are considering that possibility, while others have said that remote learning could continue into the fall.
A smattering of students could return to the classroom this spring in more rural Western states that have relatively few confirmed cases. They include Montana, where the governor gave schools the option to reopen starting May 7 — which some have already declined to do — and Idaho, where a handful of rural districts are considering it.A smattering of students could return to the classroom this spring in more rural Western states that have relatively few confirmed cases. They include Montana, where the governor gave schools the option to reopen starting May 7 — which some have already declined to do — and Idaho, where a handful of rural districts are considering it.
“We’re in the category of ‘we don’t know,’” said Rob Waite, the superintendent of the Shoshone School District, a small, rural district in Lincoln County, Idaho. Given the small class sizes there — the largest has 22 students — he said students could easily sit six feet apart.“We’re in the category of ‘we don’t know,’” said Rob Waite, the superintendent of the Shoshone School District, a small, rural district in Lincoln County, Idaho. Given the small class sizes there — the largest has 22 students — he said students could easily sit six feet apart.
Gov. Gavin Newsom of California said on Tuesday that the state was studying the possibility of restarting the next school term in July, about a month earlier than usual.Gov. Gavin Newsom of California said on Tuesday that the state was studying the possibility of restarting the next school term in July, about a month earlier than usual.
Most schools in the state have canceled the remaining weeks of their spring term, which Mr. Newsom said had resulted in a “learning loss.” A decision on the early resumption of school, the governor said, would come in “weeks not months.”Most schools in the state have canceled the remaining weeks of their spring term, which Mr. Newsom said had resulted in a “learning loss.” A decision on the early resumption of school, the governor said, would come in “weeks not months.”
In New Jersey, a hot spot for the virus, Gov. Philip D. Murphy has said there was “a chance” that schools could reopen in some fashion before the end of June. But in New York City, home to the nation’s largest district, Mayor Bill de Blasio has said that the city’s 1.1 million students would not return until September. And in Illinois, some state and local officials have warned that remote learning could continue in the fall.In New Jersey, a hot spot for the virus, Gov. Philip D. Murphy has said there was “a chance” that schools could reopen in some fashion before the end of June. But in New York City, home to the nation’s largest district, Mayor Bill de Blasio has said that the city’s 1.1 million students would not return until September. And in Illinois, some state and local officials have warned that remote learning could continue in the fall.
“Our original working knowledge was that this was a temporary thing,” Janice Jackson, the chief executive of Chicago Public Schools, said at a Board of Education meeting last week. “It’s now been extended through the end of the year, and some of the models have us even planning — not planning, but realizing — the possibility that this may be the new normal even in the fall.”“Our original working knowledge was that this was a temporary thing,” Janice Jackson, the chief executive of Chicago Public Schools, said at a Board of Education meeting last week. “It’s now been extended through the end of the year, and some of the models have us even planning — not planning, but realizing — the possibility that this may be the new normal even in the fall.”
Some parents may not want to risk sending their children back to school anytime soon.Some parents may not want to risk sending their children back to school anytime soon.
When the British government ordered students to stop going to school, it made two big exceptions: Children of essential workers and children classified as “vulnerable” can still attend, so thousands of schools have remained open for them. But with virus fears running high, only about 5 percent of eligible students are showing up.When the British government ordered students to stop going to school, it made two big exceptions: Children of essential workers and children classified as “vulnerable” can still attend, so thousands of schools have remained open for them. But with virus fears running high, only about 5 percent of eligible students are showing up.
The United States on Tuesday surpassed one million known coronavirus cases, showing how an outbreak that began with a small trickle of cases in January has exploded into a national crisis.The United States on Tuesday surpassed one million known coronavirus cases, showing how an outbreak that began with a small trickle of cases in January has exploded into a national crisis.
The bleak milestone was yet another sign of how the virus has upended life in America, taking lives, destroying families, spreading through meat plants, prisons and nursing homes, forcing businesses and schools to close, and causing more than 26 million people to lose their jobs in the past five weeks.The bleak milestone was yet another sign of how the virus has upended life in America, taking lives, destroying families, spreading through meat plants, prisons and nursing homes, forcing businesses and schools to close, and causing more than 26 million people to lose their jobs in the past five weeks.
At the White House, Mr. Trump was asked Tuesday about his remark in February that the number of cases in the United States would go down to “close to zero.” He responded, “It will go down to zero, ultimately,” and described the high number of confirmed cases as a result of increased testing.At the White House, Mr. Trump was asked Tuesday about his remark in February that the number of cases in the United States would go down to “close to zero.” He responded, “It will go down to zero, ultimately,” and described the high number of confirmed cases as a result of increased testing.
The true number of infections is much higher. The one million figure does not include untold thousands of Americans who contracted the virus but were not tested, either because they did not show symptoms or because of a persistent national testing shortage.The true number of infections is much higher. The one million figure does not include untold thousands of Americans who contracted the virus but were not tested, either because they did not show symptoms or because of a persistent national testing shortage.
Some disease researchers have estimated that the true number of infections may be about 10 times the known number, and preliminary testing of how many people have antibodies to the virus seems to support that view.Some disease researchers have estimated that the true number of infections may be about 10 times the known number, and preliminary testing of how many people have antibodies to the virus seems to support that view.
But as the country’s death toll, now more than 50,000, continues to grow and as the economic fallout continues to mount, the benchmark of one million cases helped show the human suffering.But as the country’s death toll, now more than 50,000, continues to grow and as the economic fallout continues to mount, the benchmark of one million cases helped show the human suffering.
Roughly one in every 330 people in the United States has now tested positive for the virus. And even as the virus showed signs of retreating in some hard-hit places, including Seattle and New Orleans, other parts of the country, including Chicago and Los Angeles, continued to report persistently high numbers of new infections. More than 1,300 new cases were announced on Monday in Cook County, Illinois, along with nearly 1,000 in Los Angeles County.Roughly one in every 330 people in the United States has now tested positive for the virus. And even as the virus showed signs of retreating in some hard-hit places, including Seattle and New Orleans, other parts of the country, including Chicago and Los Angeles, continued to report persistently high numbers of new infections. More than 1,300 new cases were announced on Monday in Cook County, Illinois, along with nearly 1,000 in Los Angeles County.
Though the country’s urban centers were hit worst early in the pandemic, parts of rural America are now experiencing the most alarming rates of growth. Many of those outbreaks have been tied to outbreaks at meatpacking plants or other workplaces.Though the country’s urban centers were hit worst early in the pandemic, parts of rural America are now experiencing the most alarming rates of growth. Many of those outbreaks have been tied to outbreaks at meatpacking plants or other workplaces.
In Cass County, Ind., the number of known cases has surged from 52 to 1,025 over 10 days. In Dakota County, Neb., where there were no known cases until April 12, there are now more than 600. And in the county that includes Green Bay, Wis., where there are outbreaks at three meatpacking facilities, cases more than octupled in a two-week stretch, to 853.In Cass County, Ind., the number of known cases has surged from 52 to 1,025 over 10 days. In Dakota County, Neb., where there were no known cases until April 12, there are now more than 600. And in the county that includes Green Bay, Wis., where there are outbreaks at three meatpacking facilities, cases more than octupled in a two-week stretch, to 853.
Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday flouted the Mayo Clinic’s policy that all visitors wear protective face masks when he toured the facility in Minnesota without covering his face.Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday flouted the Mayo Clinic’s policy that all visitors wear protective face masks when he toured the facility in Minnesota without covering his face.
During the tour, Stephen Hahn, the Food and Drug Administration commissioner, and other administration officials wore masks; all employees around Mr. Pence were wearing face masks, and a patient wore a mask. Mr. Pence stood out as the only person with his face uncovered as he toured the virology laboratory’s labeling area, thanking employees and then participating in a round table with local officials and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota.During the tour, Stephen Hahn, the Food and Drug Administration commissioner, and other administration officials wore masks; all employees around Mr. Pence were wearing face masks, and a patient wore a mask. Mr. Pence stood out as the only person with his face uncovered as he toured the virology laboratory’s labeling area, thanking employees and then participating in a round table with local officials and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota.
After the visit, the Mayo Clinic tweeted that it had “informed @VP of the masking policy prior to his arrival today.” The clinic then deleted the tweet.After the visit, the Mayo Clinic tweeted that it had “informed @VP of the masking policy prior to his arrival today.” The clinic then deleted the tweet.
Mr. Pence defended his own behavior. “As vice president of the United States, I’m tested for the coronavirus on a regular basis, and everyone who is around me is tested for the coronavirus,” he told reporters.Mr. Pence defended his own behavior. “As vice president of the United States, I’m tested for the coronavirus on a regular basis, and everyone who is around me is tested for the coronavirus,” he told reporters.
He said he was following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines that indicated that masks were good for preventing the spread of the virus by those who had it.He said he was following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines that indicated that masks were good for preventing the spread of the virus by those who had it.
He also wanted to look workers and researchers “in the eye and say thank you,” he said, although surgical masks do not cover eyes.He also wanted to look workers and researchers “in the eye and say thank you,” he said, although surgical masks do not cover eyes.
Public health experts said his argument for not wearing a mask in public settings was faulty.Public health experts said his argument for not wearing a mask in public settings was faulty.
Even for Covid-19 patients who are showing symptoms, diagnostic tests may detect the virus only 75 percent of the time, said Dr. Mark Loeb, a microbiologist and infectious disease specialist at McMaster University. It is unclear how sensitive the tests are in asymptomatic cases.Even for Covid-19 patients who are showing symptoms, diagnostic tests may detect the virus only 75 percent of the time, said Dr. Mark Loeb, a microbiologist and infectious disease specialist at McMaster University. It is unclear how sensitive the tests are in asymptomatic cases.
The vice president was also not modeling behavior that politicians have been recommending to their constituents.The vice president was also not modeling behavior that politicians have been recommending to their constituents.
Mr. Pence has not worn a face mask during any of his recent travels. Earlier this month, for instance, he was greeted by Gov. Jared Polis of Colorado, who was wearing a face mask emblazoned with images from his state flag when he landed in Colorado Springs. Mr. Pence tapped elbows but kept his face bare.Mr. Pence has not worn a face mask during any of his recent travels. Earlier this month, for instance, he was greeted by Gov. Jared Polis of Colorado, who was wearing a face mask emblazoned with images from his state flag when he landed in Colorado Springs. Mr. Pence tapped elbows but kept his face bare.
After the Mayo Clinic visit, Representative Tulsi Gabbard, Democrat of Hawaii, expressed her disapproval: “Pence thumbed his nose at Mayo Clinic policy requiring everyone to mask. They should have denied him entrance, and not kowtowed to his arrogance,” she wrote on Twitter.After the Mayo Clinic visit, Representative Tulsi Gabbard, Democrat of Hawaii, expressed her disapproval: “Pence thumbed his nose at Mayo Clinic policy requiring everyone to mask. They should have denied him entrance, and not kowtowed to his arrogance,” she wrote on Twitter.
Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for federal stimulus money connected to the pandemic — and neither, it turns out, are more than a million American citizens who are married to them.Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for federal stimulus money connected to the pandemic — and neither, it turns out, are more than a million American citizens who are married to them.
A provision in the legislation that created the stimulus fund, which received little attention while it was under debate, prohibits payments to people who file taxes jointly with someone who uses an individual taxpayer identification number, a common substitute for a Social Security number used mostly by immigrants without legal status.A provision in the legislation that created the stimulus fund, which received little attention while it was under debate, prohibits payments to people who file taxes jointly with someone who uses an individual taxpayer identification number, a common substitute for a Social Security number used mostly by immigrants without legal status.
The result is that American citizens who are married to undocumented immigrants will not receive financial support from the federal government, including $1,200 for adults and $500 bonus payments for each dependent child under 16 living in their home.The result is that American citizens who are married to undocumented immigrants will not receive financial support from the federal government, including $1,200 for adults and $500 bonus payments for each dependent child under 16 living in their home.
Such is the case for Luz María Ortíz de Pulido, whose husband, four children and grandchild are all United States citizens. Were it not for Ms. Pulido’s lack of legal status, the family would have received $3,900 from the I.R.S. to help cover their bills, which would have helped to make up for the income she has lost as a house cleaner.Such is the case for Luz María Ortíz de Pulido, whose husband, four children and grandchild are all United States citizens. Were it not for Ms. Pulido’s lack of legal status, the family would have received $3,900 from the I.R.S. to help cover their bills, which would have helped to make up for the income she has lost as a house cleaner.
Money has always been tight in their home in Del Valle, Texas, but now the situation is dire.Money has always been tight in their home in Del Valle, Texas, but now the situation is dire.
“We needed that money,” Ms. Pulido said. “It’s seven people in my house, and just me who doesn’t have papers, and we are all punished. It’s hard.”“We needed that money,” Ms. Pulido said. “It’s seven people in my house, and just me who doesn’t have papers, and we are all punished. It’s hard.”
Simon Property Group, the biggest operator of malls in the United States, has come up with a game plan for reopening 49 shopping centers across 10 states starting on Friday.Simon Property Group, the biggest operator of malls in the United States, has come up with a game plan for reopening 49 shopping centers across 10 states starting on Friday.
Security officers and employees will “actively remind and encourage shoppers” to maintain a proper distance from others and to refrain from shopping in groups. Food court seating will be spaced to encourage social distancing, and reusable trays will be banished. Play areas and drinking fountains will be temporarily closed, mall-provided strollers will not be available and, in restrooms, every other sink and urinal will be taped off. Regular audio announcements will be made “to remind shoppers of their part in maintaining a safe environment for everyone.”Security officers and employees will “actively remind and encourage shoppers” to maintain a proper distance from others and to refrain from shopping in groups. Food court seating will be spaced to encourage social distancing, and reusable trays will be banished. Play areas and drinking fountains will be temporarily closed, mall-provided strollers will not be available and, in restrooms, every other sink and urinal will be taped off. Regular audio announcements will be made “to remind shoppers of their part in maintaining a safe environment for everyone.”
The company shared its ideas for what its pandemic-era malls will look like in documents attached to an April 27 memo, which were given to retailers and obtained by The New York Times. It provides a glimpse of how the broader American shopping experience is likely to look as the country begins to slowly reopen. But the success of such an approach depends largely on whether retailers will also decide to quickly reopen stores and whether the public will feel comfortable going to malls when tests for the virus remain difficult to get.The company shared its ideas for what its pandemic-era malls will look like in documents attached to an April 27 memo, which were given to retailers and obtained by The New York Times. It provides a glimpse of how the broader American shopping experience is likely to look as the country begins to slowly reopen. But the success of such an approach depends largely on whether retailers will also decide to quickly reopen stores and whether the public will feel comfortable going to malls when tests for the virus remain difficult to get.
Simon Property, which has seen the future of brick-and-mortar retail seriously threatened by the pandemic, plans to open the shopping centers between Friday and Monday. The majority are in Texas, Indiana, Georgia and Missouri. Properties in Tennessee, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Alaska and Mississippi will also be reopened.Simon Property, which has seen the future of brick-and-mortar retail seriously threatened by the pandemic, plans to open the shopping centers between Friday and Monday. The majority are in Texas, Indiana, Georgia and Missouri. Properties in Tennessee, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Alaska and Mississippi will also be reopened.
It is not clear how many retailers with stores in those malls will open their doors. Gap Inc., which owns its namesake brand as well as Athleta, Banana Republic and Old Navy and is a tenant in some of the properties being reopened, said on Tuesday that it was not opening any stores this weekend. Macy’s, also a Simon Property tenant, currently has all of its stores closed. On Tuesday, it said it had no update on when they would reopen.It is not clear how many retailers with stores in those malls will open their doors. Gap Inc., which owns its namesake brand as well as Athleta, Banana Republic and Old Navy and is a tenant in some of the properties being reopened, said on Tuesday that it was not opening any stores this weekend. Macy’s, also a Simon Property tenant, currently has all of its stores closed. On Tuesday, it said it had no update on when they would reopen.
Simon Property, which is based in Indianapolis and at the end of last year owned more than 200 properties in 37 states and Puerto Rico, did not respond to requests for comment.Simon Property, which is based in Indianapolis and at the end of last year owned more than 200 properties in 37 states and Puerto Rico, did not respond to requests for comment.
The United States continues to face shortages in personal protective equipment and testing supplies, according to a summary of briefings that senior administration officials gave to Congress that directly undercut recent statements by Mr. Trump that the country is “loaded up” on such equipment.The United States continues to face shortages in personal protective equipment and testing supplies, according to a summary of briefings that senior administration officials gave to Congress that directly undercut recent statements by Mr. Trump that the country is “loaded up” on such equipment.
David Bibo, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s deputy associate administrator for response and recovery, told the House Oversight and Reform Committee on April 21 that the demand for medical equipment and testing materials “outstrips supply considerably,” and that FEMA has been forced to prioritize urgent needs and recommend reusing protective equipment.David Bibo, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s deputy associate administrator for response and recovery, told the House Oversight and Reform Committee on April 21 that the demand for medical equipment and testing materials “outstrips supply considerably,” and that FEMA has been forced to prioritize urgent needs and recommend reusing protective equipment.
On Tuesday, Mr. Bibo told the same committee that “while things are improving, there is still more demand than there is supply, especially for particular pieces of P.P.E.” like medical gowns, according to a statement from the Oversight Committee.On Tuesday, Mr. Bibo told the same committee that “while things are improving, there is still more demand than there is supply, especially for particular pieces of P.P.E.” like medical gowns, according to a statement from the Oversight Committee.
Despite consistent complaints from governors that they do not have nearly enough tests, Mr. Trump has claimed the states have adequate resources to begin reopening their economies and schools. “They had everything they needed. They had their ventilators; they had their testing,” Mr. Trump said on Monday after a call with governors. “We’re getting them what they need.”Despite consistent complaints from governors that they do not have nearly enough tests, Mr. Trump has claimed the states have adequate resources to begin reopening their economies and schools. “They had everything they needed. They had their ventilators; they had their testing,” Mr. Trump said on Monday after a call with governors. “We’re getting them what they need.”
But Mr. Trump’s own administration seems to be disputing those assertions. Dr. Carl Newman of the Department of Health and Human Services told the House committee on Tuesday that he was concerned about “access to swabs” and “access to reagents” needed for testing. He added that the administration would work with states to “meet their testing goals.”But Mr. Trump’s own administration seems to be disputing those assertions. Dr. Carl Newman of the Department of Health and Human Services told the House committee on Tuesday that he was concerned about “access to swabs” and “access to reagents” needed for testing. He added that the administration would work with states to “meet their testing goals.”
“Officials from FEMA and H.H.S. directly contradicted President Trump’s claims, admitting that we do not have enough tests or protective equipment and that critical shortages are likely to continue,” said Representative Carolyn B. Maloney of New York, the chairwoman of the Oversight Committee. “The president’s failed response to the coronavirus crisis has already caused untold suffering and chaos. He needs to start being honest with the American people and come up with a nationwide plan to get the resources we need to prevent more Americans from dying.”“Officials from FEMA and H.H.S. directly contradicted President Trump’s claims, admitting that we do not have enough tests or protective equipment and that critical shortages are likely to continue,” said Representative Carolyn B. Maloney of New York, the chairwoman of the Oversight Committee. “The president’s failed response to the coronavirus crisis has already caused untold suffering and chaos. He needs to start being honest with the American people and come up with a nationwide plan to get the resources we need to prevent more Americans from dying.”
Federal officials have been flying in protective gear procured from overseas by the private sector after the federal government this month effectively exhausted a national stockpile of such medical gear, like masks, gloves and face shields. The project has been lauded by senior administration officials but criticized by some state leaders for its overreliance on the private sector and opaque criteria of choosing which jurisdictions receive most of the supplies.Federal officials have been flying in protective gear procured from overseas by the private sector after the federal government this month effectively exhausted a national stockpile of such medical gear, like masks, gloves and face shields. The project has been lauded by senior administration officials but criticized by some state leaders for its overreliance on the private sector and opaque criteria of choosing which jurisdictions receive most of the supplies.
State leaders and local hospitals have also continued to struggle to procure protective gear because of widespread shortages, fraud and increased competition from other states and the federal government.State leaders and local hospitals have also continued to struggle to procure protective gear because of widespread shortages, fraud and increased competition from other states and the federal government.
Janet Montesi, a spokeswoman for FEMA, said that the agency had previously acknowledged that the federal government’s stockpile alone would not fulfill the needs of states and that the administration continued to explore options to procure the supplies, including with “pending contracts” to get protective gear.Janet Montesi, a spokeswoman for FEMA, said that the agency had previously acknowledged that the federal government’s stockpile alone would not fulfill the needs of states and that the administration continued to explore options to procure the supplies, including with “pending contracts” to get protective gear.
“This is a global pandemic — demand continues to outweigh supply across the globe, not just in the U.S.,” Ms. Montesi said in a statement. “Considering that, FEMA and H.H.S. are both working hard to ensure federal contracting efforts don’t compete with states’ abilities to acquire P.P.E. and other supplies.”“This is a global pandemic — demand continues to outweigh supply across the globe, not just in the U.S.,” Ms. Montesi said in a statement. “Considering that, FEMA and H.H.S. are both working hard to ensure federal contracting efforts don’t compete with states’ abilities to acquire P.P.E. and other supplies.”
President Trump said on Tuesday that he would declare meat processing plants “critical infrastructure” to ensure that facilities around the country remained open as the government tried to prevent shortages of pork, chicken and other products as a result of the pandemic.President Trump said on Tuesday that he would declare meat processing plants “critical infrastructure” to ensure that facilities around the country remained open as the government tried to prevent shortages of pork, chicken and other products as a result of the pandemic.
The action came as meat plants have turned into coronavirus hot spots, sickening thousands of workers, and after the head of Tyson Foods, one of the country’s largest processors, warned that millions of pounds of meat would simply disappear from the supply chain.The action came as meat plants have turned into coronavirus hot spots, sickening thousands of workers, and after the head of Tyson Foods, one of the country’s largest processors, warned that millions of pounds of meat would simply disappear from the supply chain.
Mr. Trump, speaking at a White House event on Tuesday, said he planned to sign an executive order that afternoon, saying that meat producers were facing liability that was “unfair to them.”Mr. Trump, speaking at a White House event on Tuesday, said he planned to sign an executive order that afternoon, saying that meat producers were facing liability that was “unfair to them.”
But unions and labor advocates said the administration needed to do more to protect workers who often worked shoulder to shoulder in refrigerated assembly lines. Thousands of meatpacking workers have already been infected, and at least 20 have died, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union said.But unions and labor advocates said the administration needed to do more to protect workers who often worked shoulder to shoulder in refrigerated assembly lines. Thousands of meatpacking workers have already been infected, and at least 20 have died, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union said.
Outbreaks at processing plants around the United States have now shuttered much of the nation’s slaughtering capacity, causing food companies to warn of shortages at supermarkets and forcing farmers to kill pigs and chickens they cannot get to market.Outbreaks at processing plants around the United States have now shuttered much of the nation’s slaughtering capacity, causing food companies to warn of shortages at supermarkets and forcing farmers to kill pigs and chickens they cannot get to market.
Mr. Trump did not clarify what his executive order would actually protect the industry against, but he said his administration was working with Tyson Foods, one of the nation’s largest meat processors, which has warned of shortages to come.Mr. Trump did not clarify what his executive order would actually protect the industry against, but he said his administration was working with Tyson Foods, one of the nation’s largest meat processors, which has warned of shortages to come.
As of Thursday, 13 meatpacking and food processing plants had closed at some point in the past two months, resulting in a 25 percent reduction in the nation’s pork slaughter capacity and a 10 percent reduction in beef slaughter capacity, according to the food workers’ union.As of Thursday, 13 meatpacking and food processing plants had closed at some point in the past two months, resulting in a 25 percent reduction in the nation’s pork slaughter capacity and a 10 percent reduction in beef slaughter capacity, according to the food workers’ union.
As some states moved forward with plans to let some businesses reopen, Gov. Charlie Baker of Massachusetts, a Republican, announced Tuesday that he would extend the limit on gatherings and the closures of nonessential businesses in his state until May 18.As some states moved forward with plans to let some businesses reopen, Gov. Charlie Baker of Massachusetts, a Republican, announced Tuesday that he would extend the limit on gatherings and the closures of nonessential businesses in his state until May 18.
“We’re all incredibly eager to move on from this phase of our lives, but if we act too soon, we could risk a spike in infections that could force our state to revert to serious restrictions again,” Mr. Baker said at a news conference. “And this scenario would be far worse for our economy, and for our communities, and for our people.”“We’re all incredibly eager to move on from this phase of our lives, but if we act too soon, we could risk a spike in infections that could force our state to revert to serious restrictions again,” Mr. Baker said at a news conference. “And this scenario would be far worse for our economy, and for our communities, and for our people.”
He spoke as more than a dozen states moved ahead with tentative plans to gradually reopen their economies, despite a lack of widespread testing that public health experts say will be needed to identify, track and contain new outbreaks. Even as they pressed ahead, there was no agreed-upon strategy for the best way to safely navigate from lockdowns to some form of new normal.He spoke as more than a dozen states moved ahead with tentative plans to gradually reopen their economies, despite a lack of widespread testing that public health experts say will be needed to identify, track and contain new outbreaks. Even as they pressed ahead, there was no agreed-upon strategy for the best way to safely navigate from lockdowns to some form of new normal.
Massachusetts reported another 104 deaths from the virus on Monday, bringing its total to 3,003 — and said that there had been 56,462 confirmed cases there so far. Mr. Baker said that extending the limit of gatherings, and the closures of business, were essential to continuing to slow the spread of the virus and to help the state’s hospitals keep up with the crush of cases. There have been at least 58,302 confirmed cases of the virus in Massachusetts, according to a New York Times database. As of Tuesday evening, at least 3,153 people had died. Mr. Baker said that extending the limit of gatherings, and the closures of business, were essential to continuing to slow the spread of the virus and to help the state’s hospitals keep up with the crush of cases.
But he sounded an almost apologetic tone.But he sounded an almost apologetic tone.
“I know pushing these dates back a couple of weeks is probably not what many people want to hear,” said Mr. Baker, who announced an advisory board to help plan the ultimate reopening.“I know pushing these dates back a couple of weeks is probably not what many people want to hear,” said Mr. Baker, who announced an advisory board to help plan the ultimate reopening.
“I know we’ll get there soon,” he said, “but we have to be smart about how we do it, and recognize and understand that there are risks associated with going back too soon.”“I know we’ll get there soon,” he said, “but we have to be smart about how we do it, and recognize and understand that there are risks associated with going back too soon.”
In Alabama, Gov. Kay Ivey, a Republican, announced Tuesday that when the state’s stay-at-home order expires April 30, it will be replaced by a “safer-at-home” order that will allow many businesses to reopen, but will not go as far as some other states in the South.In Alabama, Gov. Kay Ivey, a Republican, announced Tuesday that when the state’s stay-at-home order expires April 30, it will be replaced by a “safer-at-home” order that will allow many businesses to reopen, but will not go as far as some other states in the South.
In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, whose stay-at-home order expires on Friday, plans to announce on Wednesday his plan for what he calls a gradual reopening.In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, whose stay-at-home order expires on Friday, plans to announce on Wednesday his plan for what he calls a gradual reopening.
During a meeting in the Oval Office Tuesday with Mr. Trump, Mr. DeSantis struck a very different note from other governors who have said that more testing capacity will be needed before they can ease restrictions. Mr. DeSantis said that “our ability to test exceeds the current demand,” which Mr. Trump called “a fantastic thing.”During a meeting in the Oval Office Tuesday with Mr. Trump, Mr. DeSantis struck a very different note from other governors who have said that more testing capacity will be needed before they can ease restrictions. Mr. DeSantis said that “our ability to test exceeds the current demand,” which Mr. Trump called “a fantastic thing.”
Data show that Florida’s testing rate over the past week was slightly below the national average. As of Monday, the state was conducting an average of 60 tests per 100,000 residents, according to The Covid Tracking Project. The national average was 68 tests, with some states performing many more: Rhode Island was averaging 254 tests per 100,000 people.Data show that Florida’s testing rate over the past week was slightly below the national average. As of Monday, the state was conducting an average of 60 tests per 100,000 residents, according to The Covid Tracking Project. The national average was 68 tests, with some states performing many more: Rhode Island was averaging 254 tests per 100,000 people.
Florida has more than 32,800 cases, and reported 83 new deaths between Monday and Tuesday, the highest single-day number in the state.Florida has more than 32,800 cases, and reported 83 new deaths between Monday and Tuesday, the highest single-day number in the state.
Many other states are considering when and how to reopen.Many other states are considering when and how to reopen.
In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that stores, restaurants, movie theaters and malls would be allowed to reopen with limited capacity on Friday.In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that stores, restaurants, movie theaters and malls would be allowed to reopen with limited capacity on Friday.
In Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp allowed hair salons and tattoo parlors to reopen, and let restaurants welcome eat-in diners, over the objections of health experts, mayors and Mr. Trump.In Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp allowed hair salons and tattoo parlors to reopen, and let restaurants welcome eat-in diners, over the objections of health experts, mayors and Mr. Trump.
In California, barber shops, nail salons and similar workplaces “where the proximity is very close” will be among the last to open, Dr. Sonia Angell, the director of the state’s Department of Public Health, said Tuesday.In California, barber shops, nail salons and similar workplaces “where the proximity is very close” will be among the last to open, Dr. Sonia Angell, the director of the state’s Department of Public Health, said Tuesday.
In Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine unveiled a more incremental plan that would allow manufacturing work to resume and offices to reopen next week.In Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine unveiled a more incremental plan that would allow manufacturing work to resume and offices to reopen next week.
Arizona has a stay-at-home order that is set to expire on Thursday, but the governor has been vague about plans.Arizona has a stay-at-home order that is set to expire on Thursday, but the governor has been vague about plans.
In North Carolina, protesters in downtown Raleigh who were calling on Gov. Ray Cooper to lift his stay-at-home order were met by a small group of health care workers urging him to keep nonessential businesses closed. Some, in masks and scrubs, carried signs reading “Stay Home For Me,”In North Carolina, protesters in downtown Raleigh who were calling on Gov. Ray Cooper to lift his stay-at-home order were met by a small group of health care workers urging him to keep nonessential businesses closed. Some, in masks and scrubs, carried signs reading “Stay Home For Me,”
Dr. Fauci said it might be very difficult for professional teams to return to action, despite proposals by various leagues and sports organizations to restart play.Dr. Fauci said it might be very difficult for professional teams to return to action, despite proposals by various leagues and sports organizations to restart play.
A key variable, he said in an interview with The New York Times, would be the availability of access to tests for the virus that are plentiful and provide results immediately.A key variable, he said in an interview with The New York Times, would be the availability of access to tests for the virus that are plentiful and provide results immediately.
“Safety, for the players and for the fans, trumps everything,” he said. “If you can’t guarantee safety, then unfortunately you’re going to have to bite the bullet and say, ‘We may have to go without this sport for this season.’”“Safety, for the players and for the fans, trumps everything,” he said. “If you can’t guarantee safety, then unfortunately you’re going to have to bite the bullet and say, ‘We may have to go without this sport for this season.’”
Dr. Fauci’s remarks came as Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association and other leagues scrambled to find ways to safely bring their players together to train and play games, with or without fans in the seats.Dr. Fauci’s remarks came as Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association and other leagues scrambled to find ways to safely bring their players together to train and play games, with or without fans in the seats.
Mr. Trump has urged sports commissioners to return to play as soon as possible, while governors of California, New York and other hard-hit states have reacted cautiously.Mr. Trump has urged sports commissioners to return to play as soon as possible, while governors of California, New York and other hard-hit states have reacted cautiously.
“If we let our desire to prematurely get back to normal, we can only get ourselves right back in the same hole we were in a few weeks ago,” Dr. Fauci said.“If we let our desire to prematurely get back to normal, we can only get ourselves right back in the same hole we were in a few weeks ago,” Dr. Fauci said.
He said any resumption of play should be done gradually and carefully, and when cases begin to increase again, that “we have the capability of identifying, isolating and contact tracing.”He said any resumption of play should be done gradually and carefully, and when cases begin to increase again, that “we have the capability of identifying, isolating and contact tracing.”
Dr. Fauci, a fan of the Yankees and the Washington Nationals, said he would feel comfortable returning to the stadium when the level of infection was far lower than it is now.Dr. Fauci, a fan of the Yankees and the Washington Nationals, said he would feel comfortable returning to the stadium when the level of infection was far lower than it is now.
“I would love to be able to have all sports back,” Dr. Fauci said. “But as a health official and a physician and a scientist, I have to say, right now, when you look at the country, we’re not ready for that yet.”“I would love to be able to have all sports back,” Dr. Fauci said. “But as a health official and a physician and a scientist, I have to say, right now, when you look at the country, we’re not ready for that yet.”
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Tuesday that companies that received more than $2 million in small business loans would be audited by the Small Business Administration and could face “criminal liability” if it turns out they were not eligible to apply for the relief money.
Mr. Mnuchin’s comments come as backlash grows over big, publicly traded companies taking millions of dollars of loans while small businesses have been left out and unable to gain access to the $660 billion pot of bailout money.
“We want to make sure this money is getting to where it should be,” Mr. Mnuchin said on CNBC.
The second round of the small business loan program started on Monday and it was marred by technical glitches and frustration among banks and borrowers. The program has also suffered from Treasury’s lack of clear guidance to banks and borrowers about who is eligible to receive funds from the $660 billion Paycheck Protection Program.
Last week, the Treasury and the S.B.A. clarified the certification requirements for borrowers to dissuade big companies that have access to other forms of capital from applying, saying that only firms without access to other forms of capital — such as selling shares or debt — would qualify.
Several companies returned their loan money in recent days amid the backlash, including the Los Angeles Lakers basketball franchise, which on Monday said it had given back its $4.6 million loan. Mr. Mnuchin said on Tuesday that he thought it was “outrageous” that the Lakers had taken money and warned other public companies that they could face criminal liability if they did not refund the loans by May 7.
“The purpose of this program was not social welfare for big business,” Mr. Mnuchin said.
The Treasury secretary noted that banks had been encouraged to process the loans as quickly as possible and that the onus is on the borrowers to honestly assess if they are eligible for the loans, which are meant for businesses with fewer than 500 workers.
“It’s really the fault of the borrowers,” Mr. Mnuchin said. “It’s the borrowers who have criminal liability if they made this certification and it’s not true.”
So far, at least 116 public companies have disclosed receiving loans over $2 million and haven’t returned those funds.
Coronavirus patients with lung cancer, blood cancer or cancer that has spread beyond its original site are at greater risk than cancer-free patients for severe Covid-19, the illness caused by the virus, according to a new study of patients in Hubei Province in China.Coronavirus patients with lung cancer, blood cancer or cancer that has spread beyond its original site are at greater risk than cancer-free patients for severe Covid-19, the illness caused by the virus, according to a new study of patients in Hubei Province in China.
The findings add to suspicions that cancer patients may have unique vulnerabilities to the virus. But experts cautioned that the research was far from definitive.The findings add to suspicions that cancer patients may have unique vulnerabilities to the virus. But experts cautioned that the research was far from definitive.
It included only 105 cancer patients overall, and the number of patients with each type of cancer was very small.It included only 105 cancer patients overall, and the number of patients with each type of cancer was very small.
The researchers studied the medical records of 105 Covid-19 patients with cancer at 14 hospitals in Wuhan, China, comparing them with 536 Covid-19 patients of similar age who did not have cancer and were treated at the same hospitals.The researchers studied the medical records of 105 Covid-19 patients with cancer at 14 hospitals in Wuhan, China, comparing them with 536 Covid-19 patients of similar age who did not have cancer and were treated at the same hospitals.
Patients with cancer died at twice the rates of cancer-free patients, the researchers estimated. Cancer patients had nearly twice the risk of having severe symptoms and nearly three times the risk of requiring mechanical ventilation, the investigators found.Patients with cancer died at twice the rates of cancer-free patients, the researchers estimated. Cancer patients had nearly twice the risk of having severe symptoms and nearly three times the risk of requiring mechanical ventilation, the investigators found.
Patients who had had surgery appeared to be at higher risk for severe outcomes, but those who had undergone radiation therapy did not appear to have worse outcomes.Patients who had had surgery appeared to be at higher risk for severe outcomes, but those who had undergone radiation therapy did not appear to have worse outcomes.
One disturbing finding was that patients who had undergone immunotherapy experienced the most severe illness and the highest death rates.One disturbing finding was that patients who had undergone immunotherapy experienced the most severe illness and the highest death rates.
The study, which was peer reviewed, was presented at a virtual conference of the American Association for Cancer Research and published in the organization’s journal, Cancer Discovery.The study, which was peer reviewed, was presented at a virtual conference of the American Association for Cancer Research and published in the organization’s journal, Cancer Discovery.
It hinted at good news for people with early stage, localized cancers, whose risk for severe Covid-19 was similar to the risk faced by cancer-free patients.It hinted at good news for people with early stage, localized cancers, whose risk for severe Covid-19 was similar to the risk faced by cancer-free patients.
Mauricio Santillana, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and one of the paper’s two senior authors, acknowledged that the findings needed further exploration.Mauricio Santillana, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and one of the paper’s two senior authors, acknowledged that the findings needed further exploration.
But the study provided some data that confirmed and quantified doctors’ concerns about the special risks faced by people with cancer, who often have compromised immune systems, he said.But the study provided some data that confirmed and quantified doctors’ concerns about the special risks faced by people with cancer, who often have compromised immune systems, he said.
Hospitals should put in place extra precautions when treating cancer patients, Dr. Santillana added. Many of the cancer patients in the study were infected with Covid-19 while they were in the hospital for treatment.Hospitals should put in place extra precautions when treating cancer patients, Dr. Santillana added. Many of the cancer patients in the study were infected with Covid-19 while they were in the hospital for treatment.
The number of virus patients newly admitted to hospitals in New York State has fallen more than 70 percent since the outbreak’s peak this month, according to state statistics on Tuesday.The number of virus patients newly admitted to hospitals in New York State has fallen more than 70 percent since the outbreak’s peak this month, according to state statistics on Tuesday.
The latest number was below 1,000 for the first time in over a month, down from more than 3,000 on April 7, providing further evidence that the outbreak is waning.The latest number was below 1,000 for the first time in over a month, down from more than 3,000 on April 7, providing further evidence that the outbreak is waning.
Deaths from the virus remained flat — 335 more people died, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said, down by more than 50 percent from the peak, when nearly 800 people per day were dying of the virus.Deaths from the virus remained flat — 335 more people died, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said, down by more than 50 percent from the peak, when nearly 800 people per day were dying of the virus.
He also outlined the methods through which the state would re-evaluate its progress in reopening. If hospitals reached 70 percent of their capacity or the rate of transmission hit 1.1, he said, those would be signals to halt any easing of restrictions. That comes after he has suggested that some businesses in what he called low-risk industries like construction or manufacturing might restart in parts of the state after May 15. Much of the state, including New York City and its suburbs, would stay shut longer, he has said.He also outlined the methods through which the state would re-evaluate its progress in reopening. If hospitals reached 70 percent of their capacity or the rate of transmission hit 1.1, he said, those would be signals to halt any easing of restrictions. That comes after he has suggested that some businesses in what he called low-risk industries like construction or manufacturing might restart in parts of the state after May 15. Much of the state, including New York City and its suburbs, would stay shut longer, he has said.
In New Jersey, the governor said on Tuesday that the state had recorded another 402 deaths, as dozens gathered in Trenton to protest social distancing. The number was the highest the state has reported on one day, but he said it included some deaths from the weekend that had not been reported Sunday or Monday. New Jersey’s death toll is now 6,442.In New Jersey, the governor said on Tuesday that the state had recorded another 402 deaths, as dozens gathered in Trenton to protest social distancing. The number was the highest the state has reported on one day, but he said it included some deaths from the weekend that had not been reported Sunday or Monday. New Jersey’s death toll is now 6,442.
While stuck indoors, you can finally address tasks you’ve long put off, such as organizing your shelves. Here are some tips.While stuck indoors, you can finally address tasks you’ve long put off, such as organizing your shelves. Here are some tips.
Some students returned to school in China, where social distancing measures and grueling placement exams awaited.Some students returned to school in China, where social distancing measures and grueling placement exams awaited.
Reporting was contributed by Pam Belluck, Ken Belson, Alan Blinder, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Emily Cochrane, Michael Cooper, Michael Corkery, Maria Cramer, Caitlin Dickerson, Nicholas Fandos, Michael Gold, Elizabeth A. Harris, Jack Healy, Shawn Hubler, Andrew Jacobs, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Annie Karni, Neil MacFarquhar, Sapna Maheshwari, Jonathan Martin, Patricia Mazzei, Sarah Mervosh, Anahad O’Connor, Michael Powell, Roni Carn Rabin, William K. Rashbaum, Brian M. Rosenthal, Michael Rothfeld, David Sanger, Marc Santora, Dionne Searcey, Eileen Sullivan, Vanessa Swales, Ana Swanson, James Wagner, Ali Watkins, Karen Weise and David Yaffe-Bellany.Reporting was contributed by Pam Belluck, Ken Belson, Alan Blinder, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Emily Cochrane, Michael Cooper, Michael Corkery, Maria Cramer, Caitlin Dickerson, Nicholas Fandos, Michael Gold, Elizabeth A. Harris, Jack Healy, Shawn Hubler, Andrew Jacobs, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Annie Karni, Neil MacFarquhar, Sapna Maheshwari, Jonathan Martin, Patricia Mazzei, Sarah Mervosh, Anahad O’Connor, Michael Powell, Roni Carn Rabin, William K. Rashbaum, Brian M. Rosenthal, Michael Rothfeld, David Sanger, Marc Santora, Dionne Searcey, Eileen Sullivan, Vanessa Swales, Ana Swanson, James Wagner, Ali Watkins, Karen Weise and David Yaffe-Bellany.