usatoday--2020-03-19--Two members of Congress test positive for coronavirus; Trump signs emergency aid package

WASHINGTON – Rep. Ben McAdams , D-Utah , became the second U.S. lawmaker to test positive for COVID-19 .
McAdams , 45 , said that he started developing mild symptoms on Saturday after returning from Washington , D.C. , and immediately began isolating himself after consultation with his doctor .
`` On Tuesday , my doctor instructed me to get tested for COVID-19 and following his referral , I went to the local testing clinic for the test , '' he said in a statement `` Today I learned that I tested positive.
” McAdams , the only Democratic member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he will self-quarantine until he knows it is safe : “ I 'm doing my part as all Americans are doing to contain the spread of the virus and mitigate the coronavirus outbreak . ''
`` I urge Utahns to take this seriously and follow the health recommendations we 're getting from the CDC and other health experts so that we can recover from this public threat , '' his statement concludes .
Earlier Wednesday , Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart , R-Fla. , announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19 , becoming the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus .
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump signed a sweeping multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday night that will provide paid sick leave for Americans who are in quarantine , helping a family member who is infected with COVID-19 or have children whose schools have closed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak .
The bill also offers free testing for coronavirus and boosts unemployment insurance , food assistance and federal funding for Medicaid as part of an ongoing effort by Washington to combat the rapid spread of the pandemic .
`` Today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
6201 , the `` Families First Coronavirus Response Act '' ( the `` Act '' ) , '' the president said in a statement .
`` The Act makes emergency supplemental appropriations and other changes to law to help the Nation respond to the coronavirus outbreak . ''
Trump noted a provision in the measure that requires the secretary of agriculture to submit a report to Congress that includes legislative recommendations .
The president said he would `` treat this provision in a manner consistent with Article II , section 3 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` exclusive authority '' to make recommendations to Congress .
The president signed the bill hours after the Senate approved the bill , which was the result of days of negotiations between the White House and Congress .
Florida Republican is first member of Congress to test positive for COVID-19 Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart , R-Fla. , announced Wednesday that he tested positive for COVID-19 , becoming the first known member of Congress to contract the rapidly spreading virus .
Diaz-Balart , who represents parts of Miami and South Florida , said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington on Friday because his wife has pre-existing conditions , and thus is more susceptible to contracting the coronavirus .
Diaz-Balart said the following day , he started to show symptoms that included a fever and headache .
He was notified on Wednesday that he tested positive for the coronavirus .
`` I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better , '' he said in a statement .
`` However , it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We must continue to work together to emerge stronger as a country during these trying times . ''
Members of Congress have been worried about the prospects of contracting the virus , with some arguing that lawmakers should be able to vote remotely to avoid traveling back and forth to Washington .
At least 15 lawmakers so far have gone into self-quarantine after coming into contact or being in the vicinity of someone who has tested positive for the virus .
Both Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chambers have instead moved to make voting safer by attempting to limit the numbers of lawmakers on the floor of the House and Senate .
Many lawmakers have also told their staff to work remotely in hopes of limiting interaction .
The infection comes as Congress begins work on a third legislative package that will offer more help for Americans and businesses that are hurting due to the virus .
Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has tested negative for coronavirus , a party official said Wednesday .
McDaniel , 46 , lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a former chairwoman of the Michigan Republican Committee .
She went to a local hospital in Michigan on Friday after coming down with flu-like symptoms .
On Wednesday afternoon , Michael Ahrens , communications director for the RNC , posted on Twitter the results , saying , `` On the advice of her doctor , @ GOPChairwoman was administered a test for COVID-19 .
That test has fortunately come back negative . ''
Last Saturday , the RNC announced that McDaniel had been tested .
But she remained active while awaiting test results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday 's Democratic presidential debate and on other issues .
Sen. Elizabeth Warren , D-Mass.
, sent a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Robert Redfield on Wednesday requesting clarification on whether the CDC has authority to cover the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment .
Warren said that Redfield could `` authorize payment for the care , and treatment of individuals subject to medical examination , quarantine , ( and ) isolation , '' regarding those who have or are suspected of having coronavirus , adding that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay for all costs not covered by any form of insurance for COVID-19 testing and treatment for Americans with the virus.
” Last week , Redfield said he was willing use his existing authority to have the CDC pay for all Americans to be tested for the coronavirus , including the uninsured , after questioning from Rep. Katie Porter , D-Calif. , during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing .
Porter had asserted that Redfield has such authority under federal law .
After persistent questioning , Redfield agreed he would commit to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the tests .
“ I think you ’ re an excellent questioner , so my answer is yes , ” Redfield told Porter .
Warren pointed out the exchange with Porter in her letter , but also said that in his “ closing statement , you appeared to walk back this commitment.
” His closing statement said : “ In my comments today I want to just clarify that we ’ re currently examining all avenues to try to ensure that uninsureds have access to testing and treatment .
And we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Centers that can do this at reduced or free and we will continue to update both the Congress and the public on all available resources for this population.
” Warren continued , `` It is critical that you clarify your response and your plans to use this existing CDC authority in order to ensure all Americans who have or fear that they may have COVID-19 can afford testing and treatment.
” She requested answers for a clarification by no later than March 31 .
The Pentagon is preparing to deploy the Navy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to the coronavirus , the Defense Department has announced .
The U.S. Navy hospital ship Comfort will require weeks of repairs before it can sail from its port in Norfolk , Virginia , Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said Wednesday afternoon .
President Donald Trump said earlier in the day that the Comfort and another hospital ship , the Mercy , will be “ launched over the next week or so depending on need.
” Trump also said the Comfort was in San Diego .
It is in Norfolk .
The Mercy ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Comfort will sail to New York when maintenance is completed in a matter of weeks , Hoffman said .
The Mercy will be ready in days , he said .
The military has had 89 cases of the infection , including 49 troops , 19 of their dependents , 14 civilian workers and seven contractors .
Of those cases , 14 were hospitalized .
When asked about his timeline of a decision to potentially drop out of the presidential race , Sen. Bernie Sanders , I-VT. , was short-tempered in his response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ f***ing global crisis .
You know , we 're dealing with.
” When pressed again about still running for president , he responded , “ Well right now , right now I 'm trying to do my best to make sure that we do n't have an economic meltdown and that people do n't die .
Is that enough for you to keep me busy for today ? ''
Despite overwhelmingly losing all three states during Tuesday ’ s primaries , the Vermont senator is not dropping out of the race , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DC voting on a emergency aid package Wednesday that provides paid sick and family leave for many Americans .
The Senate passed the bill 90-8 and it will now be sent to the White House for President Trump ’ s signature .
Coronavirus cases in the United States passed 7,000 on Wednesday .
The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday that will provide paid sick and family leave for many Americans while also offering free testing for the coronavirus and bolstering unemployment insurance .
The 90-8 vote of approval comes after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep broad bipartisan support for the package , the second Congress has passed to combat the coronavirus .
Eight Republican senators voted against the bill , Sen. Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee , Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma , Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin , Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma , Sen. Mike Lee of Utah , Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky , Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska , and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina .
Three senators offered three amendments to the bill , all of which failed .
The three changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the proposal , extending paid sick and family leave further and cut paid leave to instead expand unemployment for workers affected .
The bill will now be sent to the White House for President Trump ’ s signature .
The legislation marked the second phase of Congress ’ work to address the dire impacts the virus is having on American life .
Here ’ s what it will do : • Offer two weeks of paid sick and family leave to many American workers who are in quarantine , helping a family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whose schools have closed .
Workers will get 100 % of their normal salary .
• A total of 12 weeks of paid leave to many of those who have children whose schools have closed .
Workers would get about 67 % of their normal salary for this period .
• Free testing for the coronavirus for those who need it Congress has already started working on a third stimulus package that is likely to address the needs of small businesses that are struggling due to the pandemic while also offering some type @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are also proposals for additional paid leave , bolstered help for the healthcare industry and relief for the airline and cruise industries .
Senate leaders said they would not leave Washington until this third bill passes , which many hope will happen this week or next .
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump confirmed that he plans to invoke a provision that would allow him to prohibit certain people from entering the country , including asylum seekers and those entering the country illegally at the southern border .
`` The answer 's yes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the code , adding that he plans to invoke it `` very soon .
Probably today . ''
The administration will invoke 42 U.S. Code 265 , a section of the federal legal code that states the U.S. surgeon general `` shall have the power to prohibit , in whole or in part , the introduction of persons and property from such countries or places as he shall designate in order to avert such danger , and for such period of time as he may deem necessary for such purpose . ''
When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S.-Mexico border , Trump said : `` No we ’ re not going to close it . ''
`` But we ’ re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude , '' he added .
President Donald Trump said he has no plans to suspend tariffs on China or other nations as part of the U.S. 's effort to battle the coronavirus .
“ There is no reason to do that , ” Trump said .
“ This ( virus ) was caused by something totally unrelated to tariffs.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close US-Canada border President Donald Trump said there was `` no tipping point '' in his joint decision with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to close the border between the two countries .
Trump said he spoke to Trudeau and the pair decided they `` want to isolate '' people who may be sick from coming into contact with others .
`` That 's the way we 're going to win this war , '' he said , adding that the move wo n't affect trade between the U.S. and Canada .
Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leisure travel would last for at least 30 days .
`` I would say 30 days , '' Trump said .
`` Hopefully at the end of 30 days we ’ ll be in great shape . ''
As it relates to the Southern Border : `` No we ’ re not going to close it , '' Trump said of the Southern border , `` but we ’ re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude . ''
President Donald Trump said he is invoking the Defense Production Act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and expand the supply of resources .
Trump did not say specifically what powers he would execute , but the act could allow him to step up production of respirators and other medical equipment .
Trump declined to say how , precisely , the Defense Production Act would be used and he suggested that the administration is still deciding .
He said the administration had “ targets ” for equipment it wanted but did not say what those targets were .
“ We need millions of masks , ” Trump said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the White House and Congress negotiate a trillion-dollar economic stimulus plan to combat the impacts of the coronavirus outbreak .
Here 's what else was said at the briefing : • Trump also said health officials are working on a `` self swab '' coronavirus test that would allow front line health care workers to test themselves for the virus .
`` It would free up a lot , '' Trump said .
• Trump also announced he plans to hold an additional news conference either later Wednesday or early Thursday to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drug Administration .
Trump said he `` asked the FDA to cut through the red tape and reduce regulatory barriers . ''
• Vice President Mike Pence said the Canada border closing should not affect business relationships between the two countries : “ This does not include essential travel or the transfer of goods . ''
• The federal government is recommending Americans and doctors postpone elective surgeries , including dental surgery , to increase capacity at medical facilities , said Seema Verma , director of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is going to have a major impact on the health care system , ” Verma said .
• Asked about the size of the checks Americans may receive as part of a relief effort , Trump would not say the amount of the checks .
He said that is `` to be determined .. we 're working with the Senate now . ''
He added : `` It will shortly be determined .
• Trump was asked why he repeatedly refers to the coronavirus as the `` Chinese virus . ''
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all ...
It comes from China .
That 's why . ''
• Trump says he is a war-time president , saying the virus is an `` enemy '' that is wrecking the economy : `` It 's a very tough situation ... but we 're doing it and we 're doing it well .
• Trump said the government is ordering “ thousands and thousands ” of ventilators in case they ’ re needed .
The government already has a stockpile of more than 10,000 ventilators , Pence said .
• Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , such as professional athletes , are able to get tested : `` You 'd have to ask them that question ... ( it 's the ) story of life .. That does happen .
Veteran Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie said 44 veterans have tested positive for the coronavirus and one , in Portland , has died .
He said the agency had tested “ several hundred.
” VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said his department is cutting back on non-essential medical activity in order to help respond to the coronavirus threat .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help with the effort .
Trump said he does n't agree with Mnuchin 's 20 % unemployment scenario President Donald Trump took issue with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin ’ s warning to lawmakers on Tuesday that unemployment could hit 20 % unless steps are taken to stimulate the economy .
“ I don ’ t agree with that , ” Trump said .
“ That is an absolute , worst-case scenario.
” Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the Pentagon would make 5 million masks available from its own reserves to the Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the first million would be made available immediately .
Esper also said the Defense Department would make up to 2,000 operational ventilators available to HHS as needed .
Two medical ships , Comfort and Mercy , will be deployed to assist with hospital beds .
He said the Army Corps of Engineers in New York is meeting with Gov .
Andrew Cuomo .
He said the Defense Department remains `` ready and capable '' to defend the U.S. and interests abroad .
Official : Millennials shoud take special precautions against coronavirus Dr. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ White House coronavirus task force , said Wednesday that health officials are concerned about reports coming out of France and Italy that young people are getting ill. Birx said the reports are worrisome because those who have been most at-risk have been the elderly or people with other health issues .
She urged “ the millennial generation ” to take special precautions .
“ You have the potential to spread it , ” she said .
The Pentagon has confirmed 89 COVID-19 cases among active-duty troops , their family members , civilian and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday .
Of the 89 infected by the virus , 14 have been hospitalized .
The virus has forced the cancellation of military exercises across the globe , prompted enhanced screening of troops in close proximity to one another , including pilots , and kept senior leaders apart for fear of contracting the disease .
Air Force Gen. David Goldfein , the Air Force chief of staff , told reporters Wednesday that he worked from home on Tuesday to mitigate the risk .
Travel has been restricted , and only personnel essential to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially to or within countries hardest hit by the disease such as Italy .
Crews traveling to the air base at Aviano , Italy , stay in their aircraft as long as possible , and are kept as isolated as possible when moving to their quarters on base , Goldfein said .
The Air Force is “ keeping them in a bubble , ” he said .
President Donald Trump said the Department of Housing the Urban Development would `` suspend foreclosures and evictions '' through the end of April .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all housing or just housing financed through federally backed loans or subsidized with federal funding .
McConnell : 'Burden ' on small businesses must be addressed Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate will vote Wednesday on a House bill to protect workers from the coronavirus crisis but said the “ burden ” it places on small businesses will have to be addressed in the next stimulus package the Senate will take up in the coming days .
The House bill , which includes a controversial provision to guarantee paid sick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is expected to pass and be sent to President Donald Trump for his expected signature .
Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson is expected to propose an amendment to the House bill that changes the sick leave to unemployment insurance .
McConnell said House bill would impose “ a new untested mandate on small business without guaranteeing they will have sufficient funds in advance to finance this new employee benefit.
” “ Everyone agrees that workers need relief … but small businesses need relief as well , '' he said on the Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ literally the worst time in living memory to pile even more burdens and costs onto small business which are themselves fighting to stay alive unless we back it up with major assistance.
” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the latest coronavirus stimulus plan , the details of which are still being negotiated , would not pass the Senate by the end of the week under the current procedure led by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell .
“ Secretary Mnuchin says he wants legislation passed by the end of the week .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
On Tuesday , McConnell told reporters he had divided Republican senators into three working groups that would work with the Trump administration to come up with a plan Republicans would support .
Schumer , instead , wanted negotiations between the House , Senate and Trump administration on a bipartisan basis .
`` That 's the way that 's worked the best , the quickest , the fairest in the past , '' he said , calling the procedure McConnell had outlined as likely to lead to `` delay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're going to close Canada border to 'non-essential ' traffic President Donald Trump and his aides said Wednesday the United States and Canada are working on a deal to temporarily close the border to discretionary travel in order to fight the spread of coronavirus .
Trade should not be affected , Trump said .
`` We will be , by mutual consent , temporarily closing our Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic , '' Trump tweeted .
`` Trade will not be affected .
Details to follow ! ''
Canada , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been negotiating with U.S. officials this week on rules for essential traffic .
Trump to meet with airline execs , hold call with doctors The Coronavirus Task Force will hold a 11:30 a.m. EDT news conference Wednesday to discuss the latest developments on the pandemic .
President Donald Trump also tweeted about holding a news conference with the Food and Drug Administration to `` discuss very important news from the FDA '' about the coronavirus .
His schedule is packed with meetings to discuss responses to the coronavirus .
He has a phone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roundtable teleconference , a physician teleconference and a nurse briefing listed on his public schedule .
The Senate is planning to vote Wednesday on a legislative package that will offer billions to bolster unemployment insurance , offer free coronavirus testing and paid sick and family leave for Americans following days of intense negotiations and pleas for lawmakers to quickly approve the legislation .
The bill is expected to pass the Senate and then be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature .
The vote comes after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin briefed Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ramifications sick and family leave could have on small businesses that are already feeling the economic effects of the virus .
Sen. Rand Paul , R-Ky. , is planning to offer an amendment to the legislation before the Senate votes on the measure .
The amendment would offer a way to offset the costs of the bill by using funds that would “ include ending our decades-long involvement in Afghanistan , ” his office said in a statement .
Paul offered a similar proposal earlier this month to offset costs when the Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8 billion for states and local entities to prevent the spread of the virus and help bolster efforts to create a vaccine .
The effort was shot down by his Senate colleagues .
More : Coronavirus updates : US death toll reaches 114 as Kansas cancels in-person classes for entire school year More : Biden stays in the driver 's seat , coronavirus changes our elections and other takeaways from Tuesday 's vote The director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management has resigned , leaving a key vacancy at a time when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the country – are wresting with how to respond to the coronavirus pandemic .
OPM said in a statement that the agency received the resignation of Dale Cabaniss , a longtime Republican official who President Donald Trump named to the post last year .
Cabaniss battled with John McEntee , who Trump named this year to lead the White House personnel office , according to several reports citing unnamed officials .
McEntee ’ s appointment came at a time when Trump acknowledged he was seeking to elevate White House employees who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offices in Washington expected to remain open Wednesday but provided “ maximum telework flexibilities ” to eligible workers because of coronavirus .
Trump and public health officials have advised Americans to work from home whenever possible .
More : ' A big , bold package ' : Trump calls for pumping $ 1 trillion into economy to counter coronavirus hit

Courtney Subramanian, John Fritze, David Jackson and Christal Hayes, USA TODAY

Two members of Congress test positive for coronavirus; Trump signs emergency aid package
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: Donald Trump invokes Defense Production Act President Donald Trump announced he is invoking the Defense Production Act to address the coronavirus crisis. Associated Press, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Rep. Ben McAdams, D-Utah, became the second U.S. lawmaker to test positive for COVID-19.
McAdams, 45, said that he started developing mild symptoms on Saturday after returning from Washington, D.C., and immediately began isolating himself after consultation with his doctor.
"On Tuesday, my doctor instructed me to get tested for COVID-19 and following his referral, I went to the local testing clinic for the test," he said in a statement "Today I learned that I tested positive.”
McAdams, the only Democratic member of Utah's congressional delegation, said he will self-quarantine until he knows it is safe: “I'm doing my part as all Americans are doing to contain the spread of the virus and mitigate the coronavirus outbreak."
"I urge Utahns to take this seriously and follow the health recommendations we're getting from the CDC and other health experts so that we can recover from this public threat," his statement concludes.
Earlier Wednesday, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19, becoming the first known member of Congress to contract the virus.
– Savannah Behrmann
Trump signs coronavirus emergency aid package
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump signed a sweeping multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday night that will provide paid sick leave for Americans who are in quarantine, helping a family member who is infected with COVID-19 or have children whose schools have closed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
The bill also offers free testing for coronavirus and boosts unemployment insurance, food assistance and federal funding for Medicaid as part of an ongoing effort by Washington to combat the rapid spread of the pandemic.
"Today, I have signed into law H.R. 6201, the "Families First Coronavirus Response Act" (the "Act")," the president said in a statement. "The Act makes emergency supplemental appropriations and other changes to law to help the Nation respond to the coronavirus outbreak."
Trump noted a provision in the measure that requires the secretary of agriculture to submit a report to Congress that includes legislative recommendations. The president said he would "treat this provision in a manner consistent with Article II, section 3 of the Constitution," which provides him "exclusive authority" to make recommendations to Congress.
The president signed the bill hours after the Senate approved the bill, which was the result of days of negotiations between the White House and Congress.
– Courtney Subramanian
Florida Republican is first member of Congress to test positive for COVID-19
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., announced Wednesday that he tested positive for COVID-19, becoming the first known member of Congress to contract the rapidly spreading virus.
Diaz-Balart, who represents parts of Miami and South Florida, said in a statement that he decided to self-quarantine in Washington on Friday because his wife has pre-existing conditions, and thus is more susceptible to contracting the coronavirus. Diaz-Balart said the following day, he started to show symptoms that included a fever and headache.
He was notified on Wednesday that he tested positive for the coronavirus.
"I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better," he said in a statement. "However, it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick and mitigate the spread of this virus. We must continue to work together to emerge stronger as a country during these trying times."
I'm feeling much better. However, it's important that everyone take this seriously and follow @CDCgov guidelines in order to avoid getting sick & mitigate the spread of this virus. We must continue to work together to emerge stronger as a country during these trying times. pic.twitter.com/g5W5vSQIyH — Mario Diaz-Balart (@MarioDB) March 18, 2020
Members of Congress have been worried about the prospects of contracting the virus, with some arguing that lawmakers should be able to vote remotely to avoid traveling back and forth to Washington. At least 15 lawmakers so far have gone into self-quarantine after coming into contact or being in the vicinity of someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Both Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have shot down the idea. Both chambers have instead moved to make voting safer by attempting to limit the numbers of lawmakers on the floor of the House and Senate. Many lawmakers have also told their staff to work remotely in hopes of limiting interaction.
The infection comes as Congress begins work on a third legislative package that will offer more help for Americans and businesses that are hurting due to the virus.
– Christal Hayes
RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel tests negative for coronavirus
Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has tested negative for coronavirus, a party official said Wednesday.
McDaniel, 46, lives in Northville, Michigan, and is a former chairwoman of the Michigan Republican Committee. She went to a local hospital in Michigan on Friday after coming down with flu-like symptoms.
On Wednesday afternoon, Michael Ahrens, communications director for the RNC, posted on Twitter the results, saying, "On the advice of her doctor, @GOPChairwoman was administered a test for COVID-19. That test has fortunately come back negative."
On the advice of her doctor, @GOPChairwoman was administered a test for COVID-19.
That test has fortunately come back negative. — Michael Ahrens (@michaelahrens) March 18, 2020
Last Saturday, the RNC announced that McDaniel had been tested. But she remained active while awaiting test results, posting on social media during last Sunday's Democratic presidential debate and on other issues.
– Todd Spangler, Detroit Free Press
Warren asks CDC director for clarification about COVID-19 testing
Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., sent a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Robert Redfield on Wednesday requesting clarification on whether the CDC has authority to cover the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment.
Warren said that Redfield could "authorize payment for the care, and treatment of individuals subject to medical examination, quarantine, (and) isolation," regarding those who have or are suspected of having coronavirus, adding that, “This means that the CDC could pay for all costs not covered by any form of insurance for COVID-19 testing and treatment for Americans with the virus.”
Last week, Redfield said he was willing use his existing authority to have the CDC pay for all Americans to be tested for the coronavirus, including the uninsured, after questioning from Rep. Katie Porter, D-Calif., during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing.
Porter had asserted that Redfield has such authority under federal law. After persistent questioning, Redfield agreed he would commit to using his authority to authorize payment for the tests.
“I think you’re an excellent questioner, so my answer is yes,” Redfield told Porter.
Warren pointed out the exchange with Porter in her letter, but also said that in his “closing statement, you appeared to walk back this commitment.”
His closing statement said: “In my comments today I want to just clarify that we’re currently examining all avenues to try to ensure that uninsureds have access to testing and treatment. And we’re encouraging the use of the Federally Qualified Health Centers that can do this at reduced or free and we will continue to update both the Congress and the public on all available resources for this population.”
Warren continued, "It is critical that you clarify your response and your plans to use this existing CDC authority in order to ensure all Americans who have or fear that they may have COVID-19 can afford testing and treatment.”
She requested answers for a clarification by no later than March 31.
– Savannah Behrmann
Pentagon deploying ships to support coronavirus response
The Pentagon is preparing to deploy the Navy's hospital ships to support the domestic response to the coronavirus, the Defense Department has announced.
The U.S. Navy hospital ship Comfort will require weeks of repairs before it can sail from its port in Norfolk, Virginia, Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said Wednesday afternoon.
President Donald Trump said earlier in the day that the Comfort and another hospital ship, the Mercy, will be “launched over the next week or so depending on need.”
Trump also said the Comfort was in San Diego. It is in Norfolk. The Mercy’s home port is San Diego.
The Comfort will sail to New York when maintenance is completed in a matter of weeks, Hoffman said. The Mercy will be ready in days, he said.
The military has had 89 cases of the infection, including 49 troops, 19 of their dependents, 14 civilian workers and seven contractors. Of those cases, 14 were hospitalized.
– Tom Vanden Brook
Bernie Sanders says coronavirus is a 'global crisis'
When asked about his timeline of a decision to potentially drop out of the presidential race, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-VT., was short-tempered in his response: “I'm dealing with a f***ing global crisis. You know, we're dealing with.”
When pressed again about still running for president, he responded, “Well right now, right now I'm trying to do my best to make sure that we don't have an economic meltdown and that people don't die. Is that enough for you to keep me busy for today?"
Despite overwhelmingly losing all three states during Tuesday’s primaries, the Vermont senator is not dropping out of the race, according to his campaign.
Sanders was in DC voting on a emergency aid package Wednesday that provides paid sick and family leave for many Americans. The Senate passed the bill 90-8 and it will now be sent to the White House for President Trump’s signature.
Coronavirus cases in the United States passed 7,000 on Wednesday.
- Savannah Behrmann
Senate approves coronavirus bill for sick leave, free testing
The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package Wednesday that will provide paid sick and family leave for many Americans while also offering free testing for the coronavirus and bolstering unemployment insurance.
The 90-8 vote of approval comes after days of intense negotiations and maneuvers to keep broad bipartisan support for the package, the second Congress has passed to combat the coronavirus.
Eight Republican senators voted against the bill, Sen. Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee, Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma, Sen. Mike Lee of Utah, Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska, and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina.
Three senators offered three amendments to the bill, all of which failed. The three changes took on ways to offset the costs for the proposal, extending paid sick and family leave further and cut paid leave to instead expand unemployment for workers affected.
The bill will now be sent to the White House for President Trump’s signature.
The legislation marked the second phase of Congress’ work to address the dire impacts the virus is having on American life. Here’s what it will do:
Offer two weeks of paid sick and family leave to many American workers who are in quarantine, helping a family member with COVID-19 or who have children whose schools have closed. Workers will get 100% of their normal salary.
A total of 12 weeks of paid leave to many of those who have children whose schools have closed. Workers would get about 67% of their normal salary for this period.
Bolsters unemployment insurance
Free testing for the coronavirus for those who need it
Boosts food assistance (SNAP) and federal funding for Medicaid
Congress has already started working on a third stimulus package that is likely to address the needs of small businesses that are struggling due to the pandemic while also offering some type of cash assistance to Americans. There are also proposals for additional paid leave, bolstered help for the healthcare industry and relief for the airline and cruise industries. Senate leaders said they would not leave Washington until this third bill passes, which many hope will happen this week or next.
- Christal Hayes
Trump invokes Defense Production Act to address coronavirus crisis
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump confirmed that he plans to invoke a provision that would allow him to prohibit certain people from entering the country, including asylum seekers and those entering the country illegally at the southern border.
"The answer's yes," Trump told reporters when asked about the code, adding that he plans to invoke it "very soon. Probably today."
The administration will invoke 42 U.S. Code 265, a section of the federal legal code that states the U.S. surgeon general "shall have the power to prohibit, in whole or in part, the introduction of persons and property from such countries or places as he shall designate in order to avert such danger, and for such period of time as he may deem necessary for such purpose."
When asked again whether he was closing the U.S.-Mexico border, Trump said: "No we’re not going to close it."
"But we’re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude," he added.
- Courtney Subramanian and John Fritze
Trump: no plans to pull China tariffs
President Donald Trump said he has no plans to suspend tariffs on China or other nations as part of the U.S.'s effort to battle the coronavirus.
“There is no reason to do that,” Trump said. “This (virus) was caused by something totally unrelated to tariffs.”
- Michael Collins
No 'tipping point' in decision to close US-Canada border
President Donald Trump said there was "no tipping point" in his joint decision with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to close the border between the two countries. Trump said he spoke to Trudeau and the pair decided they "want to isolate" people who may be sick from coming into contact with others.
"That's the way we're going to win this war," he said, adding that the move won't affect trade between the U.S. and Canada.
Trump said restrictions on the Canadian border blocking leisure travel would last for at least 30 days. "I would say 30 days," Trump said. "Hopefully at the end of 30 days we’ll be in great shape."
As it relates to the Southern Border: "No we’re not going to close it," Trump said of the Southern border, "but we’re invoking a certain provision that will allow us great latitude."
- Courtney Subramanian and David Jackson
Trump invokes Defense Production Act to speed resources
President Donald Trump said he is invoking the Defense Production Act, which allows the administration to expedite and expand the supply of resources. Trump did not say specifically what powers he would execute, but the act could allow him to step up production of respirators and other medical equipment.
Trump declined to say how, precisely, the Defense Production Act would be used and he suggested that the administration is still deciding. He said the administration had “targets” for equipment it wanted but did not say what those targets were.
“We need millions of masks,” Trump said. “We need respirators.”
The announcement comes as the White House and Congress negotiate a trillion-dollar economic stimulus plan to combat the impacts of the coronavirus outbreak.
Here's what else was said at the briefing:
Trump also said health officials are working on a "self swab" coronavirus test that would allow front line health care workers to test themselves for the virus. "It would free up a lot," Trump said.
Trump also announced he plans to hold an additional news conference either later Wednesday or early Thursday to discuss coronavirus progress at the Food and Drug Administration. Trump said he "asked the FDA to cut through the red tape and reduce regulatory barriers."
Vice President Mike Pence said the Canada border closing should not affect business relationships between the two countries: “This does not include essential travel or the transfer of goods."
The federal government is recommending Americans and doctors postpone elective surgeries, including dental surgery, to increase capacity at medical facilities, said Seema Verma, director of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. “We fully appreciate that this is going to have a major impact on the health care system,” Verma said.
Asked about the size of the checks Americans may receive as part of a relief effort, Trump would not say the amount of the checks. He said that is "to be determined .. we're working with the Senate now." He added: "It will shortly be determined.
Trump was asked why he repeatedly refers to the coronavirus as the "Chinese virus." He said the term is "not racist at all ... It comes from China. That's why."
Trump says he is a war-time president, saying the virus is an "enemy" that is wrecking the economy: "It's a very tough situation ... but we're doing it and we're doing it well.
Trump said the government is ordering “thousands and thousands” of ventilators in case they’re needed. The government already has a stockpile of more than 10,000 ventilators, Pence said.
Trump was asked why it seems well-connected people, such as professional athletes, are able to get tested : "You'd have to ask them that question ...(it's the) story of life .. That does happen.
- John Fritze, Courtney Subramanian, David Jackson and Michael Collins
Wilkie: 44 veterans have tested positive, 1 has died
Veteran Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie said 44 veterans have tested positive for the coronavirus and one, in Portland, has died. He said the agency had tested “several hundred.”
VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said his department is cutting back on non-essential medical activity in order to help respond to the coronavirus threat. He praised veterans for sacrificing some non-essential care to help with the effort.
- John Fritze
Trump said he doesn't agree with Mnuchin's 20% unemployment scenario
President Donald Trump took issue with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin’s warning to lawmakers on Tuesday that unemployment could hit 20% unless steps are taken to stimulate the economy.
“I don’t agree with that,” Trump said. “That is an absolute, worst-case scenario.”
- Michael Collins
Pentagon to make 5 million masks available
Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the Pentagon would make 5 million masks available from its own reserves to the Department of Health and Human Services. He said the first million would be made available immediately.
Esper also said the Defense Department would make up to 2,000 operational ventilators available to HHS as needed. Two medical ships, Comfort and Mercy, will be deployed to assist with hospital beds. He said the Army Corps of Engineers in New York is meeting with Gov. Andrew Cuomo. He said the Defense Department remains "ready and capable" to defend the U.S. and interests abroad.
- Courtney Subramanian and David Jackson
Official: Millennials shoud take special precautions against coronavirus
Dr. Deborah Birx, a member of the White House coronavirus task force, said Wednesday that health officials are concerned about reports coming out of France and Italy that young people are getting ill.
Birx said the reports are worrisome because those who have been most at-risk have been the elderly or people with other health issues.
She urged “the millennial generation” to take special precautions. “You have the potential to spread it,” she said.
- Michael Collins
Pentagon has 89 coronavirus cases
The Pentagon has confirmed 89 COVID-19 cases among active-duty troops, their family members, civilian and contract employees, the Defense Department announced Tuesday.
Of the 89 infected by the virus, 14 have been hospitalized.
The virus has forced the cancellation of military exercises across the globe, prompted enhanced screening of troops in close proximity to one another, including pilots, and kept senior leaders apart for fear of contracting the disease.
Air Force Gen. David Goldfein, the Air Force chief of staff, told reporters Wednesday that he worked from home on Tuesday to mitigate the risk.
Travel has been restricted, and only personnel essential to critical missions are authorized to move, especially to or within countries hardest hit by the disease such as Italy.
Crews traveling to the air base at Aviano, Italy, stay in their aircraft as long as possible, and are kept as isolated as possible when moving to their quarters on base, Goldfein said.
The Air Force is “keeping them in a bubble,” he said.
- Tom Vanden Brook
Trump: HUD will 'suspend foreclosures and evictions'
President Donald Trump said the Department of Housing the Urban Development would "suspend foreclosures and evictions" through the end of April. It was not immediately clear whether that would apply to all housing or just housing financed through federally backed loans or subsidized with federal funding.
- John Fritze
McConnell: 'Burden' on small businesses must be addressed
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate will vote Wednesday on a House bill to protect workers from the coronavirus crisis but said the “burden” it places on small businesses will have to be addressed in the next stimulus package the Senate will take up in the coming days.
The House bill, which includes a controversial provision to guarantee paid sick leave for workers affected by the pandemic, is expected to pass and be sent to President Donald Trump for his expected signature.
Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson is expected to propose an amendment to the House bill that changes the sick leave to unemployment insurance.
McConnell said House bill would impose “a new untested mandate on small business without guaranteeing they will have sufficient funds in advance to finance this new employee benefit.”
“Everyone agrees that workers need relief … but small businesses need relief as well," he said on the Senate floor Wednesday morning. "This is literally the worst time in living memory to pile even more burdens and costs onto small business which are themselves fighting to stay alive unless we back it up with major assistance.”
– Ledyard King
Schumer says stimulus won't pass under McConnell procedure
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the latest coronavirus stimulus plan, the details of which are still being negotiated, would not pass the Senate by the end of the week under the current procedure led by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
“Secretary Mnuchin says he wants legislation passed by the end of the week. The McConnell process will not get us there," he said.
On Tuesday, McConnell told reporters he had divided Republican senators into three working groups that would work with the Trump administration to come up with a plan Republicans would support. Schumer, instead, wanted negotiations between the House, Senate and Trump administration on a bipartisan basis.
"That's the way that's worked the best, the quickest, the fairest in the past," he said, calling the procedure McConnell had outlined as likely to lead to "delay and gridlock."
-Nicholas Wu
Trump: We're going to close Canada border to 'non-essential' traffic
President Donald Trump and his aides said Wednesday the United States and Canada are working on a deal to temporarily close the border to discretionary travel in order to fight the spread of coronavirus.
Trade should not be affected, Trump said.
"We will be, by mutual consent, temporarily closing our Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic," Trump tweeted. "Trade will not be affected. Details to follow!"
Canada, which announced border closures this week, has been negotiating with U.S. officials this week on rules for essential traffic.
– David Jackson
Trump to meet with airline execs, hold call with doctors
The Coronavirus Task Force will hold a 11:30 a.m. EDT news conference Wednesday to discuss the latest developments on the pandemic.
President Donald Trump also tweeted about holding a news conference with the Food and Drug Administration to "discuss very important news from the FDA" about the coronavirus.
His schedule is packed with meetings to discuss responses to the coronavirus. He has a phone call with airline executives, a business roundtable teleconference, a physician teleconference and a nurse briefing listed on his public schedule.
- Nicholas Wu
Senate plans to vote on sick leave, coronavirus testing bill
The Senate is planning to vote Wednesday on a legislative package that will offer billions to bolster unemployment insurance, offer free coronavirus testing and paid sick and family leave for Americans following days of intense negotiations and pleas for lawmakers to quickly approve the legislation.
The bill is expected to pass the Senate and then be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature. The vote comes after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin briefed Senate Republicans and appeased some concerns about the ramifications sick and family leave could have on small businesses that are already feeling the economic effects of the virus.
Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., is planning to offer an amendment to the legislation before the Senate votes on the measure. The amendment would offer a way to offset the costs of the bill by using funds that would “include ending our decades-long involvement in Afghanistan,” his office said in a statement.
Paul offered a similar proposal earlier this month to offset costs when the Senate took up a bill offering roughly $8 billion for states and local entities to prevent the spread of the virus and help bolster efforts to create a vaccine. The effort was shot down by his Senate colleagues.
- Christal Hayes
More: Coronavirus updates: US death toll reaches 114 as Kansas cancels in-person classes for entire school year
More: Biden stays in the driver's seat, coronavirus changes our elections and other takeaways from Tuesday's vote
Trump administration personnel chief abruptly resigns
The director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management has resigned, leaving a key vacancy at a time when federal employees – like other work forces around the country – are wresting with how to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
OPM said in a statement that the agency received the resignation of Dale Cabaniss, a longtime Republican official who President Donald Trump named to the post last year.
Cabaniss battled with John McEntee, who Trump named this year to lead the White House personnel office, according to several reports citing unnamed officials. McEntee’s appointment came at a time when Trump acknowledged he was seeking to elevate White House employees who have proven their loyalty to him.
Federal offices in Washington expected to remain open Wednesday but provided “maximum telework flexibilities” to eligible workers because of coronavirus. Trump and public health officials have advised Americans to work from home whenever possible.
- John Fritze
More: 'A big, bold package': Trump calls for pumping $1 trillion into economy to counter coronavirus hit


usatoday--2020-03-19--Trump on calling coronavirus the 'Chinese virus': 'I have to call it where it came from'

President Donald Trump has continued to refer to coronavirus as the `` Chinese virus , '' causing many to double @ @ @ @ @ avoid stigma .

Coronavirus: Donald Trump defends calling COVID-19 the 'Chinese virus'
President Donald Trump has continued to refer to coronavirus as the "Chinese virus," causing many to double down on their calls to avoid stigma.
Associated Press, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-03-20--NIH chief Francis Collins on COVID-19: Best response one people would find 'too drastic'

Kim Hjelmgaard , a London-based world-affairs correspondent for USA TODAY , interviewed Francis Collins , the director of the National Institutes of Health , as part of ongoing coverage of the coronavirus pandemic .
This is a lightly edited transcript of that interview .
When will there be a vaccine ?
We are flat out on this .
But everyone needs to recognize that even flat out for a vaccine means we 're a year to a year-and-a-half away .
And that would be breaking the record by a factor of three or so given how long it usually takes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distributed to the public .
Two days ago ( March 16 ) , the first volunteers were injected with a vaccine that is a collaboration between the NIH research center and a company called Moderna .
There are 45 volunteers in Washington state and this will be our opportunity to find out whether it generates any good and safe responses .
Depending on how that goes , and if it 's remarkably positive also provides efficacy , it will move on to a phase 2 trial with larger numbers .
Following that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'd expect to see a phase 3 trial , and possibly an opportunity to scale this up because if it works we may need hundreds of millions of doses .
But it would need at least a year for wide deployment , which is why people should not be waiting to take actions that will help minimize the impact of this growing pandemic .
( Editor 's note : Scientists , companies and governments around the world are racing to develop and test other vaccines . )
Race is on : Scientists in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for coronavirus Can the U.S. 'flatten its curve ' – slow down the spread of coronavirus – as places in Asia have ?
China , South Korea , Singapore , Taiwan – we can take very significant lessons from these places .
Anyone who looks at the experiences in Asia will see highly activated systems to avoid further transmission by having people shelter in place , avoid interactions , hand washing and all the other things that we know make a difference ( easy access to testing and tracing ) .
That lesson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus is spreading .
It may be that a country like China has a more top-down ability to insist on certain sets of behavior changes .
But we ought to be able to do it in our way , in a bottom-up fashion .
Americans are smart .
They now have some data they can look at it to know how important this is .
We just have to get together and say , as a people , this is so important for saving what may otherwise be a million lives lost .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'curve ' may be at most dangerous point Can the U.S. avoid the dire Italy-like situation ?
We should be able to blunt it .
But let 's be clear : There 's going to be a very rough road in the weeks and months ahead of us .
They are trying to manage the situation and make awful decisions about who gets a ventilator and who does n't .
God help us if this happens more broadly across the world and we certainly hope that it does n't happen here .
When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these measures , such as social distancing , and it 's front of mind for everybody , do n't expect that you can see an immediate consequence .
Right now , in the U.S. , we supposedly have 6,500 cases ( as of March 16 ) .
That 's got to be a vast underestimate because we have not been able to sample all the people who may be infected or who have no symptoms at all .
Some of these people are already destined to become very sick .
If we did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see the numbers going up over the next two weeks because of what 's out there already .
We ca n't change that .
But , what we might be able to do is change what 's going to happen three or four weeks from now .
That 's our challenge .
When you 're on an exponential curve every moment is dangerous .
This is a particularly critical moment for us to try to bring all the resources and determination of government and the American people to try to get off of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a second wave of infections when restrictions are lifted ?
The risk of a second wave when much of the population is still not immune because they did n't get it in the first place is always there .
China will be watching this closely ( now that it has started to ease restrictions in some areas and reported no new cases ) .
Until we have a vaccine , and we get herd immunity with 90 % -95 % of the population immunized , this risk of another wave is not going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that , too .
If we 're organized enough , if we 're smart enough , if we 're motivated enough , to flatten our curve this year , and , say , only 10 % of the U.S. population gets it this year , then when the next wave comes along we 'll be better off .
But only if we have the vaccine .
What does coronavirus do to your body ?
: Everything to know about the infection Should the U.S. impose a total lockdown now ?
It 's so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would say is what Anthony Fauci ( director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ) has said a few times in recent days and that is that the approach we should be taking right now is one that most people would find to be too drastic because otherwise it is not drastic enough .
Social distancing through August ?
: Trump suggests it may be needed to help confront coronavirus Does the U.S. have enough medical staff for this ?
We 're getting there .
Hospital ships are being placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The next few months will determine whether we are outstripping our capabilities or not .
I do n't know any hospital that is n't running around trying to maximize what it can do .
Here at NIH we run a hospital and we stopped elective admissions ten days ago to make sure we have all the resources we may need for extremely ill patients .
I imagine most hospitals have done the same .
But when it comes down to it , will we have enough physicians , nurses , respiratory therapists , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't know what the need is going to look like and we should be doing everything we can to spread this need out over a few months instead of having it hit in one terrible crisis , which is what we are seeing happening in Italy .
It would be almost impossible to look at the situation in Asia and just say they were lucky their curves flattened .
We are at a point in the U.S where we are doubling the number of new cases about every two to three days .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you map that up next to Italy you might say we 're about eight to 10 days behind them in terms of infections .
We better get busy .
Outlook in US : Too many coronavirus patients , too few ventilators It got off to a rocky start .
We ca n't fix that now .
What we can do now is to make sure it 's available much more broadly for people with symptoms .
Drive-thru testing should help .
But it may also freak everyone out when these facilities are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known cases will take a sudden leap up .
Although nobody should assume that means that a lot more people just got infected all of a sudden .

NIH chief Francis Collins on COVID-19: Best response one people would find 'too drastic'
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: Social distancing key to fighting COVID-19 Social distancing matters. Here is how to do it and how it can help curb the COVID-19 pandemic. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Kim Hjelmgaard, a London-based world affairs correspondent for USA TODAY, interviewed Francis Collins, the director of the National Institutes of Health, as part of ongoing coverage of the coronavirus pandemic.
This is a lightly edited transcript of that interview.
When will there be a vaccine?
We are flat out on this. But everyone needs to recognize that even flat out for a vaccine means we're a year to a year-and-a-half away. And that would be breaking the record by a factor of three or so given how long it usually takes to get something fully ready to be distributed to the public. Two days ago (March 16), the first volunteers were injected with a vaccine that is a collaboration between the NIH research center and a company called Moderna. There are 45 volunteers in Washington state and this will be our opportunity to find out whether it generates any good and safe responses. Depending on how that goes, and if it's remarkably positive also provides efficacy, it will move on to a phase two trial with larger numbers. Following that, but not until the fall, you'd expect to see a phase three trial, and possibly an opportunity to scale this up because if it works, we may need hundreds of millions of doses. But it would need at least a year for wide deployment, which is why people should not be waiting to take actions that will help minimize the impact of this growing pandemic. (Editor's note: Scientists, companies and governments around the world are racing to develop and test other vaccines.)
Race is on: Scientists in all-out global effort to find a vaccine for coronavirus
Coronavirus: How vaccines are developed and tested Pressure to create a coronavirus vaccine is increasing by the day, but for a safe vaccine to enter the market, it takes time. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Can the U.S. 'flatten its curve' – slow down the spread of coronavirus – as places in Asia have?
China, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan – we can take very significant lessons from these places. Anyone who looks at the experiences in Asia will see highly activated systems to avoid further transmission by having people shelter in place, avoid interactions, hand-washing and all the other things that we know make a difference (easy access to testing and tracing). That lesson should apply to any circumstance where this virus is spreading. It may be that a country like China has a more top-down ability to insist on certain sets of behavior changes. But we ought to be able to do it in our way, in a bottom-up fashion. Americans are smart. They now have some data they can look at it to know how important this is. We just have to get together and say, as a people, this is so important for saving what may otherwise be a million lives lost.
USA TODAY analysis: America's coronavirus 'curve' may be at most dangerous point
Can the U.S. avoid the dire Italy-like situation?
We should be able to blunt it. But let's be clear: There's going to be a very rough road in the weeks and months ahead of us. They are trying to manage the situation and make awful decisions about who gets a ventilator and who doesn't. God help us if this happens more broadly across the world and we certainly hope that it doesn't happen here. When you make a decision about one of these measures, such as social distancing, and it's front of mind for everybody, don't expect that you can see an immediate consequence. Right now, in the U.S., we supposedly have 6,500 cases (as of March 16). That's got to be a vast underestimate because we have not been able to sample all the people who may be infected or who have no symptoms at all. Some of these people are already destined to become very sick. If we did everything right today, you would still see the numbers going up over the next two weeks because of what's out there already. We can't change that. But, what we might be able to do is change what's going to happen three or four weeks from now. That's our challenge. When you're on an exponential curve, every moment is dangerous. This is a particularly critical moment for us to try to bring all the resources and determination of government and the American people to try to get off of it.
Grim milestone: Italy's coronavirus deaths surpass China's
How concerned are you about a second wave of infections when restrictions are lifted?
The risk of a second wave when much of the population is still not immune because they didn't get it in the first place is always there. China will be watching this closely (now that it has started to ease restrictions in some areas and reported no new cases). Until we have a vaccine, and we get herd immunity with 90%-95% of the population immunized, this risk of another wave is not going away. We have to think about that, too. If we're organized enough, if we're smart enough, if we're motivated enough, to flatten our curve this year, and, say, only 10% of the U.S. population gets it this year, then when the next wave comes along we'll be better off. But only if we have the vaccine.
What does coronavirus do to your body?: Everything to know about the infection
Should the U.S. impose a total lockdown now?
It's so hard to answer that but what I would say is what Anthony Fauci (director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) has said a few times in recent days and that is that the approach we should be taking right now is one that most people would find to be too drastic because otherwise, it is not drastic enough.
Social distancing through August?: Trump suggests it may be needed to help confront coronavirus
Does the U.S. have enough medical staff for this?
We're getting there. Hospital ships are being placed on the West and East coasts. The next few months will determine whether we are outstripping our capabilities or not. I don't know any hospital that isn't running around trying to maximize what it can do. Here at NIH, we run a hospital and we stopped elective admissions ten days ago to make sure we have all the resources we may need for extremely ill patients. I imagine most hospitals have done the same. But when it comes down to it, will we have enough physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, laboratory technicians, ventilators? We don't know what the need is going to look like and we should be doing everything we can to spread this need out over a few months instead of having it hit in one terrible crisis, which is what we are seeing happening in Italy. It would be almost impossible to look at the situation in Asia and just say they were lucky their curves flattened. We are at a point in the U.S where we are doubling the number of new cases about every two to three days. That's called an exponential curve. If you map that up next to Italy you might say we're about eight to 10 days behind them in terms of infections. We better get busy.
Outlook in US: Too many coronavirus patients, too few ventilators
Is testing improving?
It got off to a rocky start. We can't fix that now. What we can do now is to make sure it's available much more broadly for people with symptoms. Drive-thru testing should help. But it may also freak everyone out when these facilities are widely set up because the number of known cases will take a sudden leap up. Although nobody should assume that means that a lot more people just got infected all of a sudden.


usatoday--2020-03-20--Coronavirus cases in Congress slow legislation and send lawmakers packing

Coronavirus cases have showed up in Congress , and with more and more lawmakers choosing to quarantine , why ca @ @ @ @ @ remote votes ?

Coronavirus cases in Congress send lawmakers packing
Coronavirus cases have showed up in Congress, and with more and more lawmakers choosing to quarantine, why can't the legislature move to remote votes?
Hannah Gaber, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-03-20--Senate Republicans propose $1,200 cash payments in coronavirus economic rescue package

WASHINGTON – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Thursday unveiled a historic stimulus package that includes direct payments of $ 1,200 to individuals and assistance to businesses to deal with the health and economic harm from the novel coronavirus .
“ We need to have the American people ’ s backs , '' said McConnell , R-Ky. Married couples would be eligible for up to $ 2,400 in assistance with an additional $ 500 for every child .
Assistance would begin phasing out for individuals earning at least $ 75,000 and would not be available to those with adjusted gross @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couples phases out after $ 150,000 and is not available to those with joint incomes of more than $ 198,000 .
The 247-page bill , which does not yet have a price tag , would also extend the tax filing deadline until July 15 .
The IRS has already extended the payment deadline until that date .
Small businesses would be eligible to receive a private bank loan equal to four months of their expenses that they would n't have to pay back if they stayed open , maintained their workforce and paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to $ 208 billion in collateralized loans to industries hard hit by the outbreak .
That includes airlines , which had been hoping for grants instead of loans .
`` We are not bailing out the airlines or other industries – period , '' said Sen. Richard Shelby , R-Ala .
Proposed help for the health care industry includes higher Medicare payments to providers along with measures to spur the hiring of health care workers , manufacture more personal protective equipment , and speed the development of new vaccines and treatments .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats Friday , along with administration officials .
`` We know this legislation will not be the last word , '' he said .
`` But we need to take bold action as soon as possible . ''
Senate Democrats have priorities of their own , and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer complained Thursday that they 've been left out of discussions .
`` It had virtually no input from Democrats , '' Schumer said after McConnell released his plan .
A few hours later , Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi released a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the proposal is that it is `` not at all pro-worker and instead puts corporations way ahead of workers.
” “ The number one priority is addressing this health crisis , which requires a Marshall Plan to rebuild our health care infrastructure on a continental scale and ensure the resources are there to test and treat everyone who needs it , '' they said .
Democrats share some of the same goals but not necessarily the same methods of assistance .
Schumer , for example , called it a `` must '' that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expand beyond what was included in emergency legislation the president signed into law Wednesday , an issue that Republicans have been skeptical of due to the impacts on small business .
Democrats also want an additional expansion of unemployment insurance and Medicaid along with temporarily canceling student loan payments .
“ A one-time cash payment of $ 1,000 , that might help families cover rent , groceries , for a month , but then what ? ''
Schumer said .
`` The pandemic requires bold structural changes to our society ’ s safety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months , not just weeks.
” In a conference call House Democrats held Thursday to talk about the package , Pelosi encouraged everyone to `` think big '' about how to use federal dollars to help people , according to a summary of the call provided by a participant .
`` Time is of the essence , '' she said .
Democrats on the call expressed varying views about the best way to provide direct assistance to families and businesses .
While members of both parties want to speed help to small businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there 's bipartisan concern about support for large corporations .
Florida GOP Sen. Rick Scott said the next stimulus package should focus solely on helping individual workers and restaurants , travel agencies and other mom-and-pop operations before moving on to large industries .
“ Right now , Congress needs to focus on the Americans that are hurt most by the coronavirus – our small businesses , hourly workers and individuals whose livelihoods depend on tips , ” said Scott , the former governor of Florida who once ran the nation ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t be bailing out large corporations that have enjoyed years of growth and prosperity.
” Some Democrats have particularly complained about bailing out airlines after they 've stockpiled debt and spent billions buying back stock to drive up stock prices .
`` If there is so much as a DIME of corporate bailout money in the next relief package , it should include a reinstated ban on stock buybacks , '' Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez , D-N.Y. , tweeted Tuesday .
Indiana Sen. Todd Young , a member of Senate GOP leadership , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a sympathetic industry , '' they are essential to commerce .
Young said he was the only passenger on his commercial flight from Indianapolis to Washington on Monday .
`` It was me , a pilot , a co-pilot and a flight attendant , '' he said .
`` That strikes me as an unsustainable business model . ''
The industry employs roughly 750,000 pilots , flight attendants and other workers .
Prior to the coronavirus crisis , U.S. airlines were transporting a record 2.5 million passengers and 58,000 tons of cargo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only 20-30 % full and new bookings are implying 70-80 % declines in traffic even as airlines make dramatic cuts in capacity , according to an industry trade group .
Still , public anger at the 2008 bank bailout contributed to the rise of the Tea Party movement that helped Republicans take back the House in 2010 .
Young , who was first elected to Congress as part of that wave , opposed the 2008 bailout .
Young , and others , say the current pandemic is a different situation from the 2008 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` bad decisions by bankers . ''
But Sen. Mike Braun , R-Ind.
, who has worried about comparisons with 2008 and `` bailouts for big companies , '' said he would prefer that the latest package stay focused on assistance to individuals and small businesses .
Braun , however , said he would n't hold up the package if it 's not completely to his liking .
`` It 's an unusual situation , '' he said .
But there 's already blowback from key officials to the payment proposal .
South @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key Trump confidant , told Republican colleagues Thursday both he and new White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows are trying to persuade the president to scrap the idea , according to Politico .

Maureen Groppe, Nicholas Wu, Ledyard King and Christal Hayes, USA TODAY

Senate Republicans propose $1,200 cash payments in coronavirus economic rescue package
Show Caption Hide Caption Universal basic income: What Andrew Yang and Nixon have in common What would you do if the government gave you $1,000 per month? That’s what democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang wants. We explain UBI. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Thursday unveiled a historic stimulus package that includes direct payments of $1,200 to individuals and assistance to businesses to deal with the health and economic harm from the novel coronavirus.
“We need to have the American people’s backs," said McConnell, R-Ky.
Married couples would be eligible for up to $2,400 in assistance with an additional $500 for every child.
Assistance would begin phasing out for individuals earning at least $75,000 and would not be available to those with adjusted gross incomes above $99,000. Assistance for couples phases out after $150,000 and is not available to those with joint incomes of more than $198,000.
The 247-page bill, which does not yet have a price tag, would also extend the tax filing deadline until July 15. The IRS has already extended the payment deadline until that date.
Small businesses would be eligible to receive a private bank loan equal to four months of their expenses that they wouldn't have to pay back if they stayed open, maintained their workforce and paid their bills.
The government could provide up to $208 billion in collateralized loans to industries hard hit by the outbreak. That includes airlines, which had been hoping for grants instead of loans.
"We are not bailing out the airlines or other industries – period," said Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala.
Proposed help for the health care industry includes higher Medicare payments to providers along with measures to spur the hiring of health care workers, manufacture more personal protective equipment, and speed the development of new vaccines and treatments.
McConnell said Republicans would begin discussions with Democrats Friday, along with administration officials.
"We know this legislation will not be the last word," he said. "But we need to take bold action as soon as possible."
Senate Democrats have priorities of their own, and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer complained Thursday that they've been left out of discussions.
"It had virtually no input from Democrats," Schumer said after McConnell released his plan.
A few hours later, Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi released a joint statement saying their first impression of the proposal is that it is "not at all pro-worker and instead puts corporations way ahead of workers.”
“The number one priority is addressing this health crisis, which requires a Marshall Plan to rebuild our health care infrastructure on a continental scale and ensure the resources are there to test and treat everyone who needs it," they said.
Democrats share some of the same goals but not necessarily the same methods of assistance.
Schumer, for example, called it a "must" that the package include sick leave benefits that expand beyond what was included in emergency legislation the president signed into law Wednesday, an issue that Republicans have been skeptical of due to the impacts on small business.
Democrats also want an additional expansion of unemployment insurance and Medicaid along with temporarily canceling student loan payments.
“A one-time cash payment of $1,000, that might help families cover rent, groceries, for a month, but then what?" Schumer said. "The pandemic requires bold structural changes to our society’s safety net to give people a lifeline for months, not just weeks.”
In a conference call House Democrats held Thursday to talk about the package, Pelosi encouraged everyone to "think big" about how to use federal dollars to help people, according to a summary of the call provided by a participant.
"Time is of the essence," she said.
Democrats on the call expressed varying views about the best way to provide direct assistance to families and businesses.
While members of both parties want to speed help to small businesses to help them pay workers' salaries, there's bipartisan concern about support for large corporations.
Florida GOP Sen. Rick Scott said the next stimulus package should focus solely on helping individual workers and restaurants, travel agencies and other mom-and-pop operations before moving on to large industries.
“Right now, Congress needs to focus on the Americans that are hurt most by the coronavirus – our small businesses, hourly workers and individuals whose livelihoods depend on tips,” said Scott, the former governor of Florida who once ran the nation’s largest hospital company. “We shouldn’t be bailing out large corporations that have enjoyed years of growth and prosperity.”
Some Democrats have particularly complained about bailing out airlines after they've stockpiled debt and spent billions buying back stock to drive up stock prices.
"If there is so much as a DIME of corporate bailout money in the next relief package, it should include a reinstated ban on stock buybacks," Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., tweeted Tuesday.
Indiana Sen. Todd Young, a member of Senate GOP leadership, said that while airlines "may not be a sympathetic industry," they are essential to commerce.
Young said he was the only passenger on his commercial flight from Indianapolis to Washington on Monday.
"It was me, a pilot, a co-pilot and a flight attendant," he said. "That strikes me as an unsustainable business model."
The industry employs roughly 750,000 pilots, flight attendants and other workers. Prior to the coronavirus crisis, U.S. airlines were transporting a record 2.5 million passengers and 58,000 tons of cargo each day. Today, planes are only 20-30% full and new bookings are implying 70-80% declines in traffic even as airlines make dramatic cuts in capacity, according to an industry trade group.
Still, public anger at the 2008 bank bailout contributed to the rise of the Tea Party movement that helped Republicans take back the House in 2010. Young, who was first elected to Congress as part of that wave, opposed the 2008 bailout.
Young, and others, say the current pandemic is a different situation from the 2008 financial crisis, which was caused by "bad decisions by bankers."
But Sen. Mike Braun, R-Ind., who has worried about comparisons with 2008 and "bailouts for big companies," said he would prefer that the latest package stay focused on assistance to individuals and small businesses.
Braun, however, said he wouldn't hold up the package if it's not completely to his liking.
"It's an unusual situation," he said.
But there's already blowback from key officials to the payment proposal.
South Carolina GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham, a key Trump confidant, told Republican colleagues Thursday both he and new White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows are trying to persuade the president to scrap the idea, according to Politico.


usatoday--2020-03-21--A staffer for Vice President Mike Pence has tested positive for coronavirus

WASHINGTON – A member of Vice President Mike Pence ’ s staff has tested positive for coronavirus but was not in close contact with Pence or the president , the White House said Friday .
The case marks the first such infection within the top rungs of the administration .
Katie Miller , a spokeswoman for Pence , did not identify the staffer , nor did she say specifically where the individual worked .
Pence is leading the administration ’ s coronavirus task force and has been a regular presence at the president ’ s side in recent weeks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a member of the Office of the Vice President tested positive for the Coronavirus , ” Miller said in statement .
“ Neither President Trump nor Vice President Pence had close contact with the individual.
” 'Abundance of caution ' : Several lawmakers self-quarantine out of fear of contact with coronavirus Miller said contact tracing was being conducted in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
Pence said Monday that he had not been tested for the virus .
Trump was tested and said last week his test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office did not immediately respond to questions about where the staff member worked or whether Pence had been tested sometime this week .
`` I have not been tested yet , '' Pence said Monday .
`` I ’ m in regular consultation with the White House physician , and he said I ’ ve not been exposed to anyone for any period of time that had the coronavirus , and that my wife and I have no symptoms . ''
Other members of the Trump administration have transitioned to working from home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secretary Stephanie Grisham said she was working from home earlier this week .
She was around members of the Brazilian delegation that visited Mar-a-Lago in early March .
`` I feel good , but with my proximity to the president it ’ s better to be safe than sorry , '' Grisham said .
Mick Mulvaney , the outgoing acting White House chief of staff whose replacement was announced two weeks ago , is quarantining himself in South Carolina while a family member awaits test results , and is continuing to work from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He tested negative .
Coronavirus spreads to Congress : Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart and Ben McAdams test positive for COVID-19 Meanwhile , two members of Congress have tested positive for coronavirus and are on quarantine , and others who interacted with them are isolating themselves out of caution .
At least another two-dozen lawmakers are on self-quarantine .
Many staffers are staying away from the Capitol .
Offices have been shuttered and cleaning crews are disinfecting them .
The question about whether Congress , which has average ages of 63 in the Senate and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voting remotely has been raised and so far dismissed by leadership .

Jeanine Santucci and John Fritze, USA TODAY

A staffer for Vice President Mike Pence has tested positive for coronavirus
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus canceling standardized testing for schools, Trump says Among the measures President Donald Trump announced were the waiving of school standardized test requirements. Associated Press, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – A member of Vice President Mike Pence’s staff has tested positive for coronavirus but was not in close contact with Pence or the president, the White House said Friday.
The case marks the first such infection within the top rungs of the administration.
Katie Miller, a spokeswoman for Pence, did not identify the staffer, nor did she say specifically where the individual worked. Pence is leading the administration’s coronavirus task force and has been a regular presence at the president’s side in recent weeks.
“This evening we were notified that a member of the Office of the Vice President tested positive for the Coronavirus,” Miller said in statement. “Neither President Trump nor Vice President Pence had close contact with the individual.”
'Abundance of caution': Several lawmakers self-quarantine out of fear of contact with coronavirus
Miller said contact tracing was being conducted in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pence said Monday that he had not been tested for the virus. Trump was tested and said last week his test was negative.
The vice president's office did not immediately respond to questions about where the staff member worked or whether Pence had been tested sometime this week.
"I have not been tested yet," Pence said Monday. "I’m in regular consultation with the White House physician, and he said I’ve not been exposed to anyone for any period of time that had the coronavirus, and that my wife and I have no symptoms."
Other members of the Trump administration have transitioned to working from home in recent days. White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham said she was working from home earlier this week. She was around members of the Brazilian delegation that visited Mar-a-Lago in early March.
"I feel good, but with my proximity to the president it’s better to be safe than sorry," Grisham said.
Mick Mulvaney, the outgoing acting White House chief of staff whose replacement was announced two weeks ago, is quarantining himself in South Carolina while a family member awaits test results, and is continuing to work from home, the Associated Press reported. He tested negative.
Coronavirus spreads to Congress: Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart and Ben McAdams test positive for COVID-19
Meanwhile, two members of Congress have tested positive for coronavirus and are on quarantine, and others who interacted with them are isolating themselves out of caution. At least another two-dozen lawmakers are on self-quarantine. Many staffers are staying away from the Capitol. Offices have been shuttered and cleaning crews are disinfecting them.
The question about whether Congress, which has average ages of 63 in the Senate and 58 in the House, should implement voting remotely has been raised and so far dismissed by leadership.


usatoday--2020-03-20--President Trump asked about senators who sold stocks before coronavirus sank the markets

The 4 senators who sold stocks before coronavirus sank the markets At least four senators are under fire for selling @ @ @ @ @ before the coronavirus pandemic sent the market into freefall .

The 4 senators who sold stocks before coronavirus sank the markets
At least four senators are under fire for selling significant amounts of stock weeks before the coronavirus pandemic sent the market into freefall.
USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-03-20--Trump: States can cancel standardized tests because of coronavirus school closings

It ’ s official : U.S. students wo n't have to take annual state tests this year .
The Education Department will waive federal requirements for state testing for K-12 students , due to unprecedented school shutdowns to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus , President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos announced Friday .
Normally , federal law requires schools to administer exams in English and math to students in third through eighth grade , and once in high school .
The results are used to examine how students are progressing and how well schools are performing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spring – and school closures are likely to continue through the testing window .
Leaders in 19 states had already announced the cancellation of annual exams , or that they would seek a federal waiver from the exams , according to a tally from The 74 , an education news site that tends to support education reform .
But the announcement from DeVos ensures any “ proper request ” from states to bypass testing requirements from 2019- ’ 20 school year will be honored .
“ Neither students nor teachers need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult time , ” DeVos said in a statement .
Stuck at home ?
Free educational classes and games for kids For school officials and state leaders , the federal declaration is a welcomed step .
By Friday , schools in almost all states had shuttered , many forcing parents into an experiment in mass home schooling .
The ways in which teachers have been instructed to serve students has varied tremendously between states and even between neighboring districts .
Many school and district leaders have pressed the Department of Education for more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open to how to deliver online learning to students in a way that ’ s accessible for all , as required by federal law .
The American Association of School Administrators pressed members of Congress this week to urge the Department of Education to issue blanket waivers from some federal testing and accountability requirements , since many schools are likely to be closed for the rest of the year .
Math test scores : Americans kids get smoked their peers in other countries .
Here 's why .
A coronavirus stimulus package introduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further with federal waivers , even potentially releasing schools from their federal obligation to serve students with special needs with the same services provided to general education students .
The proposal is unlikely to go forward because most Democrats would oppose it .
But it ’ s caused a wave of controversy in education circles – and a broad discussion about whether the government should prioritize what 's best for the majority or minority of students .
Disability rights advocates don ’ t want to see any relaxation of the long-fought-for rules that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and equal education .
But some school districts , such as in Philadelphia and Louisville , Kentucky , aren ’ t providing any online services to students at all because they fear running afoul of the law requiring equal services – and losing federal funding as a result .
The Individuals with Disabilities in Education act has provided crucial protections for children with special needs , said Michelle Caiola , lead attorney at Disability Rights Advocates .
“ While we are operating in unprecedented times , it would be tragic to take a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that have been providing the necessary supports for those that need them , ” she said in a statement Friday .
But districts have been forced into highly unusual circumstances and are trying their best to do the best they can for all kids , said Tom Gentzel , executive director of the National School Boards Association .
The law could create a “ perverse incentive ” for districts to not even attempt to provide distance learning services , because they can ’ t follow federal law and do it equally for all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ability to get flexibility under IDEA would happen only during the time we are dealing with this disruption , '' Gentzel said .
`` Otherwise , districts will just say , we can ’ t educate anybody .
And that would be a calamity.
” Keep them academically engaged : A plan for kids stuck at home Contact Erin Richards at ( 414 ) 207-3145 or erin.richards @ usatoday.com .
Follow her on Twitter at @ emrichards .
Education coverage at USA TODAY is made possible in part by a grant from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gates Foundation does not provide editorial input .

Trump: States can cancel standardized tests
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus canceling standardized testing for schools, Trump says Among the measures President Donald Trump announced were the waiving of school standardized test requirements. Associated Press, USA TODAY
It’s official: U.S. students won't have to take annual state tests this year.
The Education Department will waive federal requirements for state testing for K-12 students, due to unprecedented school shutdowns to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos announced Friday.
Normally, federal law requires schools to administer exams in English and math to students in third through eighth grade, and once in high school. The results are used to examine how students are progressing and how well schools are performing.
Students usually take state tests in the spring – and school closures are likely to continue through the testing window.
Leaders in 19 states had already announced the cancellation of annual exams, or that they would seek a federal waiver from the exams, according to a tally from The 74, an education news site that tends to support education reform.
But the announcement from DeVos ensures any “proper request” from states to bypass testing requirements from 2019-’20 school year will be honored.
“Neither students nor teachers need to be focused on high-stakes tests during this difficult time,” DeVos said in a statement.
Stuck at home? Free educational classes and games for kids
District leaders want more federal guidance
For school officials and state leaders, the federal declaration is a welcomed step.
By Friday, schools in almost all states had shuttered, many forcing parents into an experiment in mass home schooling. The ways in which teachers have been instructed to serve students has varied tremendously between states and even between neighboring districts.
Many school and district leaders have pressed the Department of Education for more guidance on everything from when to stay open to how to deliver online learning to students in a way that’s accessible for all, as required by federal law.
The American Association of School Administrators pressed members of Congress this week to urge the Department of Education to issue blanket waivers from some federal testing and accountability requirements, since many schools are likely to be closed for the rest of the year.
Math test scores: Americans kids get smoked their peers in other countries. Here's why.
Coronavirus: Tips to keep your kids engaged Reviewed editor-in-chief David Kender shares creative ways to keep your kids engaged while you're stuck at home. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Stimulus package sparks school controversy
A coronavirus stimulus package introduced by GOP leaders Thursday would go even further with federal waivers, even potentially releasing schools from their federal obligation to serve students with special needs with the same services provided to general education students.
The proposal is unlikely to go forward because most Democrats would oppose it. But it’s caused a wave of controversy in education circles – and a broad discussion about whether the government should prioritize what's best for the majority or minority of students.
Coronavirus relief: McConnell stimulus plan falls short, Democrats say
Disability rights advocates don’t want to see any relaxation of the long-fought-for rules that provide students with special needs an appropriate and equal education.
But some school districts, such as in Philadelphia and Louisville, Kentucky, aren’t providing any online services to students at all because they fear running afoul of the law requiring equal services – and losing federal funding as a result.
Online school: With schools closing from coronavirus, special education concerns give districts pause
The Individuals with Disabilities in Education act has provided crucial protections for children with special needs, said Michelle Caiola, lead attorney at Disability Rights Advocates.
“While we are operating in unprecedented times, it would be tragic to take a step back from those settled legal obligations that have been providing the necessary supports for those that need them,” she said in a statement Friday.
But districts have been forced into highly unusual circumstances and are trying their best to do the best they can for all kids, said Tom Gentzel, executive director of the National School Boards Association. The law could create a “perverse incentive” for districts to not even attempt to provide distance learning services, because they can’t follow federal law and do it equally for all students, he said.
“The ability to get flexibility under IDEA would happen only during the time we are dealing with this disruption," Gentzel said. "Otherwise, districts will just say, we can’t educate anybody. And that would be a calamity.”
Keep them academically engaged: A plan for kids stuck at home
Contact Erin Richards at (414) 207-3145 or erin.richards@usatoday.com. Follow her on Twitter at @emrichards.
Education coverage at USA TODAY is made possible in part by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The Gates Foundation does not provide editorial input.