March 19, 2020

19Mar

POLICY & POLITICS


North SJ Valley:


Harder visits Modesto to assess Stanislaus County’s coronavirus preparedness

Modesto Bee

As the state and federal governments begin preparing for a medical surge, Rep. Josh Harder visited the Stanislaus County Office of Emergency Services center on Wednesday to learn about the county’s preparedness.


Coronavirus update, March 19: City of Modesto to consider ‘shelter in place’ 

Modesto Bee

Here’s your daily update on the coronavirus and its impact in and around Modesto, Stanislaus County and California.


Central SJ Valley:


Fresno residents asked to ‘shelter in place’ to prevent spread of coronavirus

Fresno Bee

The city of Fresno on Wednesday issued a “shelter in place” order for residents to limit the spread of coronavirus.

See also:


Mendota community could be seriously impacted by COVID-19 outbreak

abc30

Just as cities across California adjust to the ever-changing procedures associated with the COVID-19 outbreak, rural communities like Mendota are taking cues from the county while local leaders worry what the ripple effects might have on residents.


Hanford City Council declares local emergency in regards to COVID-19

Hanford Sentinel

At its meeting Tuesday evening, the Hanford City Council voted unanimously to declare a local emergency in regards to COVID-19.


Virus called unlikely to prompt martial law in California

Hanford Sentinel

Martial law is when civil laws are suspended and a military force is in charge. It's exceptionally rare for it to be used in the United States.


Warszawski: By calling coronavirus efforts an ‘overreaction,’ Brandau failed basic measure of leader

Fresno Bee

During uncertain, harrowing times, real leaders step forward. They place the public good above all other motivations and inspire others to do the same. They make assertions based on facts gathered from the most reputable sources. They avoid horrible messaging.


South SJ Valley:


Kern County employees working from home try to stay busy, as Bakersfield looks to maintain sense of normalcy

Bakersfield Californian

Kern County workers sent home after the County Administrative Office declared a state of emergency on Monday say they are keeping busy.

See also:


KCSO releasing some inmates over coronavirus concerns

Bakersfield Californian

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is evaluating inmates at its Lerdo and Central Receiving Facilities for potential early release. Low-level, non-violent inmates whose age and medical condition place them at risk of the new coronavirus could be let out early.

See also:


BPD assembles COVID-19 resource team on Wednesday

Bakersfield Californian

The Bakersfield Police Department announced that Interim Police Chief Greg Terry has assembled a COVID-19 resource team at the department.


New coronavirus testing location in Southwest Bakersfield​​ 

KGET

If you think you may have the coronavirus and want to get tested, starting Wednesday you’ll have one more option in Kern County. “It’s not urgent care, it’s not a hospital, it’s a Covid-19 testing facility,” said Dr. Erickson.


State:


‘We need more swabs.’ Newsom praises Trump on coronavirus, but California’s still short on supplies

Fresno Bee

An hour after Gov. Gavin Newsom got off the phone with President Donald Trump on Tuesday, he talked publicly at a news briefing about the “privilege of a conversation,” and said the president promised more swabs to test for coronavirus.

See also:


Newsom issues guidelines on coronavirus, while local leaders bring the hammer

Politico

As Gov. Gavin Newsom ran late Sunday to announce his directive shutting down bars, brewpubs and wineries in California, national news blaring on television at the state emergency operations center showed Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker issuing a more aggressive order closing all bars and restaurants to stop the spread of coronavirus.


Coronavirus makes California census count more crucial, and more challenging

Los Angeles Times

Taking a head count of the entire U.S. population was already going to be hard. The coronavirus will make it much harder. Across California, grassroots groups looking to amp up census participation among historically hard-to-count communities have hit a snag: how to reach people at a time when many are self-quarantining to stem the spread of the pandemic.


California Forum: Sacrifices Californians make together to slow the spread of coronavirus are worth it

Sacramento Bee

We have entered an important new chapter in the​​ response​​ to the COVID-19​​ pandemic: After a week filled with school closures and the cancellation of major public events of all kinds, Congress and President Donald Trump are hopefully close to a​​ deal​​ to address the spread of the dangerous coronavirus. 


Sen. Kamala Harris ‘very concerned’ about coronavirus and wildfires

San Francisco Chronicle

Sen. Kamala Harris is concerned that the federal government is not yet ready for the likely scenario of a natural disaster such as a catastrophic wildfire​​ coinciding with the coronavirus pandemic.


Meet The Not-at-all-human Multi-billionaire Who Is Supposed To Save California

Zocalo

I’m ready for my close-up, Ms. Gerwig! OK, as a budget fund without acting credits, I shouldn’t expect Greta Gerwig to put me in her next film—even if both she and I are Sacramento natives. But the time is coming—quite quickly—when I, California’s humble Rainy Day Fund, will stand at the center of our state’s civic stage, and my fellow Californians will finally have to pay me the attention I deserve.

See Also:


Federal:


2020 Census suspends field operations because of coronavirus. Here’s what that means

Fresno Bee

The U.S. Census Bureau suspended all employee field operations on Wednesday because of the coronavirus outbreak, raising concerns that the once-a-decade could be delayed. 

See Also:


Belatedly battling the coronavirus, Trump tries to save the country — and his reelection campaign 

Los Angeles Times

Will the coronavirus crisis sink Trump’s reelection bid? Or will it let him portray himself as a “wartime president,” as he declared Wednesday.

See also:


Coronavirus Live Updates: As Economic Toll Rises, Lawmakers Weigh $1 Trillion Relief Plan

Washington Post

The $1 trillion relief package from the White House proposes payments of $1,000 for adults and $500 for children. Lawmakers urge remote voting for Congress, and doctors and nurses plead for protective gear.

See also:


Coronavirus: Latest State Actions 

PEW
With New York state now surpassing Washington state with the largest number of coronavirus cases, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced his administration’s priority to increase hospital capacity to meet the expected surge in patients needing care.


Elections 2020:


Gabbard ends long-shot 2020 bid, throws support to Biden

San Francisco Chronicle

Hawaii congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has suspended her presidential campaign, ending a long-shot effort that saw her feuding with Hillary Clinton and raising fears among Democrats that she would mount a third-party 2020 bid.

See also:


Coronavirus and voting: Counties looking at all-mail elections

San Francisco Chronicle

For many officials across the country, traditional polling place elections are a health hazard at a time when people are being asked to shelter in place and avoid all unnecessary contact with other people.


Other:


Fox News to be offered as a free channel ‘during dangerous times’

Los Angeles Times

Fox News will be made available free to viewers amid the coronavirus public health crisis. On Wednesday,​​ Rupert Murdoch’s media company​​ said it would partner with cable and satellite TV providers to make Fox News Channel and its Fox TV stations widely available “to ensure that every person in America can access the latest national and local news regarding coronavirus.”


Russia deploying coronavirus disinformation to sow panic in West, EU document says

Reuters

Russian media have deployed a “significant disinformation campaign” against the West to worsen the impact of the coronavirus, generate panic and sow distrust, according to a European Union document seen by Reuters.


AGRICULTURE/FOOD


Agriculture and coronavirus: No major disruption in San Joaquin Valley as of yet

Fresno Bee

For Fresno County’s $7.9 billion agriculture industry, social distancing is not that simple. Farming and food processing – hands-on industries in which workers cannot work remotely – have been deemed essential to the U.S. food supply chain during the coronavirus pandemic.

See also:


Fresno area grocery stores holding special hours for seniors, making other changes

Fresno Bee

Going to the grocery store has suddenly become the most important event of the week for many of us as the threat of coronavirus grows. If dealing with lots of people and empty shelves feels a bit daunting, you’re not alone.

See also:


Bakersfield shows 'we're all here for each other' through food giveaway

Bakersfield Californian

While people practice social distancing and are avoiding outings in order to slow the spread of the new coronavirus, the most vulnerable in Bakersfield still need help.


Local restaurants offering curbside/delivery services​​ 

KGET
Restaurants are now closed for dine-ins and should only offer drive-thru, pick-up and delivery options.

See also:


CRIMINAL JUSTICE / FIRE / PUBLIC SAFETY


Crime:


Sanger, Porterville agencies issue warnings about door-to-door coronavirus scams

Fresno Bee

Here is a warning from the Sanger Police and Porterville Fire departments during the coronavirus pandemic: Do not fall for scams.


Federal courthouses in Sacramento, Fresno, Modesto closed to public due to coronavirus

Fresno Bee

All federal courthouses in the Sacramento-based Eastern District of California have been ordered close to the public because of the ongoing coronavirus crisis and trials have been continued to May 1.

See also:


Coronavirus leads to suspension of traffic court, closure of police lobbies

Modesto Bee

Traffic Court in Stanislaus was suspended Wednesday through Friday, April 17 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Anyone scheduled for traffic court during that time period will, over the next few weeks, receive a written notice by mail with the date and time of their continued hearing, according to an announcement on the​​ court’s website.


Public Safety:


KCSO releasing some inmates over coronavirus concerns

Bakersfield Californian

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is evaluating inmates at its Lerdo and Central Receiving Facilities for potential early release. Low-level, non-violent inmates whose age and medical condition place them at risk of the new coronavirus could be let out early.

See also:


BPD assembles COVID-19 resource team on Wednesday

Bakersfield Californian

The Bakersfield Police Department announced that Interim Police Chief Greg Terry has assembled a COVID-19 resource team at the department.


Fresno diocese announces major changes for Catholics due to pandemic

Bakersfield Californian

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Fresno announced several major updates Wednesday afternoon to its response to coronavirus, including the indefinite closure of all Catholic churches in the diocese and a strong recommendation that funerals be postponed.

See also:


Virus called unlikely to prompt martial law in California

Hanford Sentinel

Martial law is when civil laws are suspended and a military force is in charge. It's exceptionally rare for it to be used in the United States.


Fire: 


Could coronavirus collide with wildfire season? California is preparing for it

San Francisco Chronicle

Northern California may still be grappling with the novel​​ coronavirus​​ outbreak when it begins to face the more familiar threat of dangerous wildfires, and emergency officials are already contemplating that possibility.

See Also:


ECONOMY / JOBS


Economy:


Wall Street swings up and down as volatility retains grip

Fresno Bee

Stocks are swinging between gains and losses in early trading on Wall Street Thursday, but the moves are more subdued than the wild jabs that have dominated recent weeks. At least for now.

See Also:


Tulare Outlets to close, reopen on March 30. Here's a list of other retail closures

Visalia Times Delta

Retailers are cutting hours or temporarily closing up shop in response to the COVID-19 virus. As many as 280,000 Californians will be laid-off during the worldwide pandemic, economists at UCLA predict.


Coronavirus: Safeway, Target, Whole Foods, Zanotto’s, Walmart launch seniors hours to combat hoarding, supply woes​​ 

Mercury News

San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo joined with Safeway executives Wednesday to announce a plan crafted to combat hoarding by offering special hours twice weekly so senior citizens can more easily shop at the supermarket giant’s Bay Area stores amid the coronavirus panic.


Sheriff Quashes Elon Musk’s Aim to Keep Tesla Production Humming

Washington Post

Tesla Inc. shares plummeted Wednesday after the sheriff’s office in the county home to the company’s California car factory said the auto maker must halt production, putting a break​​ on CEO Elon Musk’s plans to work in spite of statewide efforts to mitigate the effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic. 


WALTERS: California also faces economic hit

CalMatters

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s engaged, steady-hand-at the-tiller approach to managing California’s slice of the global coronavirus pandemic is winning well-deserved plaudits. Newsom has slowly but steadily ramped up restrictions on Californians’ potentially dangerous social interactions in hopes of slowing the spread of the deadly virus, while dipping into the state’s financial reserves to cushion impacts.


Jobs:


California braces for surge in unemployment claims

Visalia Times Delta

The California Economic Development Department has started paying overtime and bringing in retired workers to help process the onslaught of newly filed unemployment insurance claims as the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic sinks in.

See also:


Kern County employees working from home try to stay busy, as Bakersfield looks to maintain sense of normalcy

Bakersfield Californian

Kern County workers sent home after the County Administrative Office declared a state of emergency on Monday say they are keeping busy.

See also:


Amazon, Save Mart hiring in Patterson, Modesto amid coronavirus pandemic. Apply here.

Modesto Bee

Amazon plans to hire​​ 800 workers for its Patterson and Tracy warehouses, a spokesperson said Tuesday, to help meet increased demand during the coronavirus pandemic. The temporary jobs are among the 100,000 nationwide openings Amazon announced Monday, the same day Modesto-based Save Mart Cos. said it expects to hire nearly 1,000 employees in California and Nevada.


Can’t telework? You might get a new California state job, according to Newsom administration

Sacramento Bee

Many of the California state workers who reported to their offices Wednesday will have to keep showing up — whether or not their job is essential — under the latest​​ guidance from Gov. Gavin Newsom.


Dozens of California agencies consider sending workers home to combat coronavirus

Los Angeles Times

At Gov. Gavin Newsom’s urging, businesses around the state have closed their doors and sent employees home to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. But one of the largest employers was slow to offer its workforce clear guidance on who should be working remotely: the state of California.


They Clean the Buildings Workers Are Fleeing. But Who’s Protecting Them?

New York Times

Janitors are going into offices to battle the invisible germs that threaten public health, sometimes without adequate protection or information about what they are facing.


HR 6201: What Employers Need to Know About the Federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act

aalr

On March 14, 2020, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” (HR 6201), intended to provide worker relief in light of the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.  On March 18, 2020, the U.S. Senate passed the bill and presented it to President Trump, who signed the bill. HR 6201 goes into effect April 2, 2020.


EDUCATION


K-12:


Here’s when and where Fresno-area students can get free meals during coronavirus shutdown

Fresno Bee

As our society grapples with an international pandemic, schools are working to ensure students and families in their communities continue to have access to free breakfast and lunch. 


Schools likely to be closed for the rest of the school year, Newsom says

Los Angeles Times

California public schools are likely to be closed for the remainder of the school year in response to the spread of coronavirus, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Tuesday afternoon. “Don’t anticipate schools are going to open up in a week. Please don’t anticipate in a few weeks,” Newsom said during a Sacramento news conference on the state’s coronavirus efforts.

See also:


Has your school closed? Here is a list of shuttered Tulare County schools

Visalia Times Delta

Hours after President Donald Trump declared a national emergency, school districts across the Valley began announcing closures. Here is a list of closed Tulare County school districts: 

See also:


Is online school illegal? With schools closing from coronavirus, special education concerns give districts pause

Stockton Record

As districts scramble to establish distance learning plans for likely long-term school closures, they’re struggling to provide services to students with disabilities and those with other exceptional circumstances.


Community lends helping hand to parents who will become 'teachers'

Bakersfield Californian

The upcoming temporary school closures are making some parents nervous, to say the least. Not only will their children be home for hours on end, but if parents are able to stay home with them, they'll have to take on the role of "teacher."

See also:


California school districts learn more about what state expects during a long shutdown

EdSource

Gov. Gavin Newsom advised school districts on Tuesday that they should expect to be closed the rest of the school year. On Wednesday, educators began Day 1 of that new and, for some, shocking reality with a 75-minute webinar led by the California Department of Education, viewed by about 7,000 people, on how to provide distance learning, meals for students and limited child care while schools are shut down because of the coronavirus.

See Also:


California child care providers call for emergency support amid coronavirus pandemic

EdSource

As schools and businesses close across California to try to stop the spread of the coronavirus, child care providers are calling on Gov. Gavin Newsom to provide emergency support to stay in business during the coronavirus pandemic.


The Demise of the Great Education Saviors

Washington Post Magazine

In November, Sen. Elizabeth Warren traveled to Clark Atlanta University to give a speech about the history of discrimination against working black women. Instead of receiving a unanimous welcome, Warren was repeatedly interrupted by a group of pro-charter-school demonstrators — mostly black women — chanting, “Our children, our choice!”


Commentary: What the coronavirus reveals about the digital divide between schools and communities

Brookings

President Donald Trump declared a national emergency over the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, which will provide $50 billion to the states working to accelerate virus screenings and deploy other emergency responses. But the funding may have come too late as concerns over COVID-19 have already injected chaos into American society, from concerns over the economy to empty grocery store shelves, inadequate access to testing, and clogged airports for those returning from abroad.


Higher Ed:


Two UC Merced students awaiting test results after showing COVID-19 symptoms

abc30

UC Merced said that another student has shown symptoms for COVID-19 and was tested. They are waiting for test results and the student is self-quarantined off-campus. Two UC Merced students are now awaiting test results.

See also:


Fresno Pacific University reschedules May 2020 commencement

abc30

Fresno Pacific University has rescheduled its commencement ceremony scheduled for May 9 at the Selland Arena in downtown Fresno due to the novel coronavirus, administrators announced Wednesday.


California colleges and universities respond to the coronavirus: a quick guide

EdSource

Most of California’s 114 community colleges have made plans to move classes online for the next several weeks. 

See also:


'Panic-gogy': Teaching Online Classes During The Coronavirus Pandemic 

Capital Public Radio

On one level, Panicgogy means understanding students' limitations. Some only have smartphones. Some have family responsibilities. But ultimately, panicgogy is about applying compassion to learning.


SAT wars: Report bolsters idea of dropping SAT, ACT tests for UC admission

Los Angeles Times

As the University of California considers the role of the SAT and ACT in admissions, dueling reports offer opposite conclusions.


Give us a tuition break, say California students forced into online university classes

EdSource

University of California Irvine freshman Rose Oganesian understands the public health reasons to switch from in-person to online courses at universities across California during the coronavirus crisis. But she doesn’t want to get charged the same price.

See also:


ENVIRONMENT/ ENERGY


Coronavirus shutdowns are lowering greenhouse gas emissions; history shows they’ll roar back

Los Angeles Times

The global struggle to slow the spread of the coronavirus has brought with it canceled flights, closed businesses and a quickly escalating economic slowdown that could be devastating to millions.


California is a climate leader. But here’s why it needs to move even faster

Los Angeles Times

California is aiming to slash planet-warming emissions faster than ever over the next decade — and critics say state officials aren’t acting with nearly enough urgency. The​​ Golden State reached its 2020 climate change goal four years early, bringing economy-wide emissions back down to 1990 levels without most Californians noticing that anything was different. 


HEALTH/HUMAN SERVICES


Health:


Third coronavirus patient confirmed in Fresno County. It’s a travel-related case

Fresno Bee

A third case of the contagious coronavirus (COVID-19) in Fresno County was announced Wednesday evening by the​​ Fresno County Department of Public Health.

See also:


First ‘person-to-person’ coronavirus case reported in Tulare County, fifth patient overall

Fresno Bee

A fifth case of the contagious coronavirus (COVID-19) was announced in Tulare County on Wednesday – the first in that county to be described as “person-to-person” spread. A​​ fourth, travel-related case​​ was announced Tuesday night.

See also:


As cases grow, Stanislaus County health official says ‘It’s going to be worse.’

Modesto Bee

A rapidly spreading pandemic that began only 2 1/2 months ago in China has not quite crashed into Stanislaus County. But the third confirmed case of COVID-19 this week, pushing the total to five, shows the situation is changing rapidly in this county.

See Also:


First coronavirus deaths confirmed as San Joaquin County steps up testing

Stockton Record

San Joaquin County Public Health Services announced Wednesday that the first two deaths related to the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, in the county have been confirmed.


Two Kern residents test positive for coronavirus, bringing local cases to 3

Bakersfield Californian

Two Kern County residents have tested positive for coronavirus, local health officials announced Thursday morning. This brings the total number of local cases to three. A visitor to Kern who is still in the area also tested positive for the virus earlier this week.

See also:


As officials grapple with coronavirus pandemic, more than 8 million Californians are living under shelter-in-place orders

Los Angeles Times

More than 8 million Californians are living under shelter-in-place orders — the nation’s most stringent public health measures yet — as state and local governments rush to address the coronavirus pandemic. 

See Also:


Confirmed Coronavirus Cases In The U.S. Near 10,000

Capital Public Radio

The country closes in on that marker days after all 50 states reported cases of COVID-19 disease. Jobless claims across the country have also spiked amid desperate attempts to keep the virus at bay.

See also:


Coronavirus: You Ask, We Answer 

Wall Street Journal

The Wall Street Journal has been taking questions from readers about the novel coronavirus. Here, we compile answers to your questions based on interviews with experts.

See Also:


Human Services:


Surging US coronavirus cases are a ‘time bomb’ for hospitals, experts warn

Fresno Bee

As U.S. hospitals brace for​​ an expected surge​​ in coronavirus cases, experts worry they lack enough capacity, especially ICU beds and ventilators, to handle the crisis, The New York Times reports.

See also:


Mental health care adapts to telehealth due to COVID-19

Fresno Bee

Federal and state health partners, behavioral health organizations and insurers are adapting their approaches to mental health and substance use treatments due to COVID-19, but additional struggles remain for patients.

See also:


Peachwood Medical Group Closes Urgent Care Center

Clovis RoundUp

Due to COVID-19 concerns, Peachwood Medical group closed its Urgent Care Center March 17 until further notice. The urgent care facility is located at 275 West Herndon Ave, near the intersection of Herndon and Villa Avenues.


Number of Kern residents tested for virus jumps; 123 people await results

Bakersfield Californian

Kern County health officials reported no new cases on coronavirus on Wednesday but more rigorous testing appeared to be underway.

See also:


Tribal Programs That Prepare For Public Health Crises Readying For Coronavirus

Capital Public Radio

Native health services are preparing for the eventual arrival of the coronavirus on reservations and in Native communities, but the system is already strained.

See also:


What are the coronavirus restrictions in my community? A guide for Southern California

Los Angeles Times

Southern California has taken sweeping measures this week to stop dine-in restaurant service, close gyms and movie theaters, and ban or limit all gatherings to fight the spread of the coronavirus. 

See also:


If the Supreme Court repeals the Affordable Care Act, California will feel substantial impact

CalMatters

When Venice Family Clinic opened its doors 50 years ago, two volunteer physicians provided free medical care after hours in a dental clinic. They served about a dozen patients that first day.


Communicating to California’s Seniors about Coronavirus

PPIC

Older adults are especially vulnerable to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Early data show that mortality rates among people age 60 or older are many times higher than among younger adults. Protecting this population is paramount to limiting the health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. In California, this means communicating information in ways that can effectively reach a particularly diverse older population.


IMMIGRATION


Facing criticism, ICE will reduce enforcement actions amid coronavirus pandemic

Los Angeles Times

Facing criticism from across the country for continued enforcement actions​​ amid the coronavirus pandemic, ICE said Wednesday that it would shift its focus to “public safety risks.”

See Also:


Coronavirus is turning an overloaded immigration system into a ‘tinderbox’

Los Angeles Times

Last week, immigration Judge Ashley Tabaddor cordoned off the first row of seats in her courtroom at Los Angeles Immigration Court. Interpreters brought their own headsets. Clerks carried disinfectant wipes. 


‘We’re Petrified’: Immigrants Afraid to Seek Medical Care for Coronavirus
New York Times

The coronavirus was not on the agenda when a legal-aid group two months ago invited farmworkers who toil in the date groves, lemon orchards and vineyards of California’s Coachella Valley to an information session about immigration issues.


LAND USE/HOUSING


Land Use:


California state park campgrounds close. Here’s the latest on national, local parks too

Los Angeles Times

California State Parks closed all campgrounds Wednesday because of the coronavirus, but hiking trails and beaches remain open. Outdoor spaces also remain open in local and national parks, but many services have been suspended. 


Housing:


California governor: 60,000 homeless could get virus

Fresno Bee

As worries about the spread of the coronavirus confine millions of Californians to their homes, concern is growing about those who have no homes in which to shelter. Gov. Gavin Newsom estimates up to 60,000 homeless could end up infected. 

See Also:


PUBLIC FINANCES


Feds extend tax payment deadline for 90 days

San Francisco Chronicle

The federal government on Wednesday gave taxpayers an extra 90 days to pay their federal taxes and announced it won’t pursue foreclosures or evictions on government-guaranteed mortgages for at least 60 days.


Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order Temporarily Relaxing California’s WARN Act Reporting Requirements in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

aalr

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, employers around the country must brace themselves for its unprecedented economic impact.  As a result, some employers will implement reductions in workforce, layoffs, and reduction in employee hours and pay—which may require advance reporting requirements under both state and federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (“WARN”) Acts.


Coronavirus Hits State and City Budgets

Wall Street Journal

Minnesota lawmakers have approved more than $220 million to tackle the coronavirus. Washington state is tapping $175 million in reserves to test for the virus and treat patients. And Philadelphia’s city council is considering holding a teleconferenced public hearing so $85 million can be freed up to help combat the pandemic.

See Also:


Federal Reserve Establishes Lending Facility To Back Up Money Market Mutual Funds

Capital Public Radio

The Fed will receive $10 billion from the Treasury Department to cover potential losses in loans made to eligible financial institutions, to backstop the money market mutual fund industry.


Markets Enter New Phase—Where Cash Is All That Matters 

Wall Street Journal

A rush for cash shook the financial system Wednesday, as companies and investors hunkered down for a prolonged economic stall, taking the recent market turmoil into a new, more troubling liquidation phase.


Federal Reserve to Backstop Money-Market Mutual Funds Amid Coronavirus 

Wall Street Journal

The Federal Reserve said Wednesday it would launch a new lending facility to backstop the money-market mutual-fund sector as part of a broadening effort to calm turmoil sparked by the novel coronavirus epidemic.


Commentary: The Ghost of Delayed Budgets Past

Fox & Hounds

The intense reaction to the coronavirus that is upending life as we know it just may resurrect the ghost of delayed budgets that haunted California’s budget process for years. 


Commentary: To end global poverty, invest in peace

Brookings

Most of the world is experiencing a decrease in extreme poverty, but one group of countries is bucking this trend: Poverty is becoming concentrated in countries marked by conflict and fragility. New World Bank estimates show that on the current trajectory​​ by 2030, up to two-thirds of the extreme poor worldwide​​ will be living in these situations, though they account for just 10 percent of the global population.


TRANSPORTATION


California DMV bans walk-in visits, suspends driving tests to limit coronavirus spread

Fresno Bee

The California Department of Motor Vehicles is suspending walk-in visits and immediately canceling all behind-the-wheel driving tests for the next 30 days as part of its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

See Also:


Automakers shut North American plants over coronavirus fears

Fresno Bee

Concerns about the spreading coronavirus forced most of North America's auto plants to close, at least temporarily.


Travelers seeing mostly empty flights at Fresno airport

abc30

Several people wore masks, even gloves to protect against the spread of the coronavirus at Fresno Yosemite International Airport on Wednesday. Two cafes were closed inside the airport, though you can still grab a bite after you go through TSA screening.


High flows can shut down this Tuolumne bridge. New one will start to rise in spring

Modesto Bee

The bridge will replace a 1964 structure that is prone to erosion of its concrete supports during very high river flows. It​​ closed temporarily​​ in February 2017 because of the opening of the Don Pedro Dam spillway in advance of record snowmelt.


WATER


'March Miracle' continues as several storms queue up for California

AccuWeather

After an absence of major storms for much of the winter, the​​ 'March Miracle,'​​ in terms of wet weather, seems likely to continue next week in California. The storm that brought drenching rain and yards of snow to the Sierra Nevada early this week was still lingering as of Wednesday night but will diminish over the next couple of days.


“Xtra”


Even with Fresno’s shelter-in-place order, there’s ways to help others by going online

Fresno Bee

Various local community organizations, institutions and leaders are organizing efforts to support people in need. Here’s how you can help, particularly online.

See also:


Fresno-area funerals should be postponed amid coronavirus outbreak, Diocese says 

Fresno Bee

The Diocese of Fresno late on Wednesday said funeral vigil and mass services should be immediately postponed to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. “A graveside service with the option of a Memorial Mass at a later date is strongly recommended and attended only by the immediate family,” church officials said in a statement.


Stanislaus teen group, others are coming to aid of neighbors during coronavirus pandemic

Modesto Bee

While the novel coronavirus pandemic clearly has resulted in bad (hoarding) and worse (scamming) behavior, it’s also letting the goodness in people shine. In Turlock and Patterson, members of​​ New Life Christian Center’s High School Ministry are volunteering to make grocery store runs and do other errands for those who can’t get out. A private Facebook group called Modesto Area COVID-19 Support had nearly 1,500 members as of Wednesday morning. 


Modesto animal shelter seeks emergency foster families due to coronavirus shutdown

Modesto Bee

As the world continues to struggle with the coronavirus crisis, our furry friends need immediate help close to home. The Stanislaus Animal Services Agency​​ put out an emergency call​​ for foster ambassadors to take the shelter’s cats and dogs. On Wednesday, because of the growing COVID-19 epidemic, the shelter closed to the public. That has made finding foster families more difficult, said agency executive director Annette Patton.