Kansas governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday she is extending the statewide stay-at-home order through midnight on May 3rd. The order was due to expire on April 19th.
The governor said at a news conference that internal projections did not show a peak of coronavirus cases before April 19th. She said there needs to be a reduction in the number of cases for 14 days before the state can relax orders on social gatherings.
Kelly said over the next two weeks, her administration will consult with business leaders, health experts, economists and other industry and community leaders to determine the best path forward beyond May 3rd, so the economy can be reopened safely and effectively.
The governor said the action is being taken in collaboration with Missouri governor Mike Parson and the mayors of communities in the Kansas City area. She said a regional approach will reduce confusion and help keep communities safe on both sides of the state line. She said her office is also talking with Colorado governor Jared Polis to coordinate efforts with western Kansas.
