Oregon Democratic Governor Extends Coronavirus State Of Emergency And Locks Until March

Oregon Democratic Governor Kate Brown extended her state of emergency declaration until March on Thursday, saying “these are the darkest days of this pandemic.”

The declaration, which provides the legal basis for Brown to enact executive orders banning business activities and school closings, was due to expire on January 2, but has now been extended for another 60 days and will end on March 3.

Brown cited a continued rise in positive coronavirus cases in the state as the reasoning behind the spread.

“As we approach 100,000 cases of COVID-19 in Oregon, and hospitals and healthcare professionals have reached their limits, there is no doubt that COVID-19 continues to pose a threat to the community. public health, ”Brown said in a press release. “We continue to lose too much of Oregon to this deadly disease, including over 100 deaths reported in the past two days.”

“These are the darkest days of this pandemic,” she added, while acknowledging that “hope has arrived” in the form of an approved vaccine.

“Starting this week, every time another Oregonian is vaccinated against COVID-19, we are getting closer to the day when we can return to normal life. In the meantime, we must keep our guard, ”she said. “Protect your friends and loved ones by continuing to follow health and safety protocols. Wear a face mask, avoid gatherings, stay home when you are sick, and together we can reduce COVID-19 infections and save lives.”

Brown’s foreclosure orders place varying levels of restrictions on residents based on their county’s placement under the state’s four-level risk-based framework. According to KGW-TV, in effect until Dec.31, there are 29 counties at the extreme risk level, one at moderate risk, and six counties at lower risk. “

In extreme-risk counties, social gatherings of more than six people are prohibited, indoor dining is prohibited, and indoor recreation and entertainment establishments are closed by warrant. Retail stores are also required to limit capacity to 50% while religious institutions are required to limit capacity to 25%.

On the same day as the statewide extension, officials in Multnomah County – the state’s largest county and seat of Portland – extended the local state of emergency declaration by six months. , making the ordinance effective until July.