MA Coronavirus: State Joins Regional Council To Reopen Economy

BOSTON — Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker joined the leaders of six neighboring states Monday to announce a regional partnership on the coronavirus response and reopening the economy. The governors of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Rhode Island are involved in the effort.

"The Baker-Polito Administration looks forward to participating in discussions with neighboring states and experts regarding the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic," Baker said in a news release issued by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The group will be made up of one health expert, one economic development expert and the governor's chief of staff from each state, working together to create a framework to slowly lift restrictions, including stay-at-home orders and business closures, while minimizing the spread of the virus.

"We have been collaborating closely with our neighboring states to combat this pandemic through a uniform approach to social distancing and density reduction and it has been working well," Cuomo said. "Now it is time to start opening the valve slowly and carefully while watching the infection rate meter so we don't trigger a second wave of new infections."

The council plans to use testing, contact tracing, treatment and social distancing to ease restrictions without triggering a new outbreak.

"Massachusetts also remains focused on efforts to expand testing, ensure hospital capacity and provide the necessary [personal protective equipment] to those on the front lines to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities," Baker said.

Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo noted that governors have been on the forefront of ordering social distancing measures.

"Throughout the crisis, the governors have been the ones who have been showing great leadership and taken action to keep our residents safe," Raimondo said during the call. "So I think it's only appropriate now that we are coming together and showing leadership to reopen the economy. As we take a coordinated approach on a regional level we will be much more successful."

The governors' announcement came after President Donald Trump said Monday that it would be his decision when states begin reopening.

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