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Gov. Carney creates pandemic resurgence committee

June 2, 2020

Gov. John Carney created a Pandemic Resurgence Advisory Committee June 1 in an effort to plan for a possible resurgence of COVID-19 in fall 2020.

Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long and Secretary of State Jeff Bullock will co-chair the PRAC, along with the co-chairs of three subcommittees – Health Chair Dr. Nancy Fan, chair of the Delaware Health Care Commission; Equity Chair Eugene Young, Metropolitan Urban League of Wilmington president; and Business Chair Katie Wilkinson, Delaware State Chamber of Commerce board of directors chair.

“This pandemic is not over,” said Carney. “The COVID-19 virus is still active in Delaware, and there's a real risk of a dangerous second wave this fall. Our most vulnerable populations – especially our elderly neighbors and those with underlying health conditions – remain most at risk. I want to thank everyone who agreed to serve on this committee. This distinguished group will help us look forward and develop a comprehensive plan for managing a second wave of this disease.”

Under Carney’s executive order, the PRAC will:

• Develop a healthcare system and public health strategy that’s ready in case of a resurgence of COVID-19

• Identify tactics and resources to manage a resurgence of COVID-19, including but not limited to testing capabilities, personal protective equipment, social distancing, economic recovery and health facility readiness

• Assess methods to protect vulnerable populations and consider disproportionate effects on minority-owned businesses in the event of a resurgence of COVID-19.

The PRAC will produce and submit two written reports of its findings and recommendations to the governor – the first by July 31, and the second by Sept. 30. Delaware’s Office of Management and Budget, the Delaware Department of Justice, and the Office of the Governor will provide administrative and leadership support for the PRAC and each of its subcommittees.

The PRAC virtual meetings will be scheduled in the coming weeks, and meeting information will be posted on Delaware’s public meeting calendar.

To read Executive Order 39, go to https://tinyurl.com/y6uvymu8.

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