Reeves activates National Guard to assist state with Covid-19 response

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE From MS. Governor’s office

March 16, 2020

JACKSON MS — March 16, 2020, Governor Tate Reeves signed two executive orders to further the state’s response to COVID-19 and aid Mississippians being impacted.

Addressing Mississippians via Facebook Live, Governor Reeves announced the ongoing efforts working with state and local agencies to proactively prepare for and respond to the changing circumstances surrounding COVID-19 in the state. For the Governor’s full remarks, you can view them here.

“This is a situation that is ever evolving. It is my goal and my mission to keep Mississippi up-to-date and informed of the facts and to continue improving our response efforts to protect public health. While you may be healthy, this is about protecting your loved ones, your neighbors, and people across Mississippi. We must look after one another during this trying time. We will come through this together—stronger,” said Governor Tate Reeves.

Executive Order No. 1459 (below) activates the Mississippi National Guard to support mobile testing units and support Mississippi State Department of Health and Mississippi Emergency Management Agency at the testing locations. The Governor plans to implement the additional mobile testing sites throughout Mississippi in the coming days.

Governor Reeves also signed Executive Order No. 1458 (below) which allows state agencies to determine which state employees are essential and send everyone else home. The Governor encouraged other businesses in Mississippi to do the same with their employees.

Working to take care of our children during this difficult time, the Governor also asks schools in Executive Order No. 1458 to begin working with the Mississippi Department of Education to develop distance learning protocols as the state determines how long schools should remain closed. The second executive order asks schools to continue providing free and reduced lunches to students as well.

Executive Order No. 1458 also ensures paid leave for any state or local employees missing work due to COVID-19. The Governor is working with the Legislature to make sure it applies to everyone who could qualify and hopes that the private sector will follow suit.

Executive orders 1458: