Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 20-02, declaring a state of emergency in Missouri in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), on March 13, 2020.
Executive Order 20-02
Executive Order 20-02 allows the governor, in a state of emergency, to waive or suspend the operation of any statutory requirement or administrative rule prescribing procedures for conducting state business, where strict compliance with such requirements and rules would prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action by the department of health and senior services to respond to a declared emergency or increased health threat to the population.
Why he Signed the Order
Governor Parson did not sign the executive order because Missouri’s healthcare system is overwhelmed or unprepared. Governor Parson signed it to stay ahead of the virus and allow more flexibility in utilizing resources and deploying them around the state where they are most appropriate. The executive order allows Governor Parson to waive certain state laws and regulations where necessary. The order permits for direct state agencies to report any unfair market practices.
Faster Test Results
Missouri State Public Health Lab has also been working with Washington University laboratories to expand COVID-19 testing and is working towards doing the same with the University of Missouri laboratories. This should increase the testing in Missouri to go up.
Executive Order 20-02 can be found here. To read the full press release, go here.
