Louisiana is up to 136 positive COVID-19 cases, and is now reporting it’s third death, a victim at a New Orleans area nursing home. One of those new cases was the first in the Capital Region, found in Ascension Parish.
Governor Edwards has also issued a new series of business restrictions, calling for the closure of gyms and bars, along with the closure of dining rooms for restaurants.
Restaurants will be confined to providing curbside pickup take out options until April 13th, with a 13 day extension possible. All gatherings of 50 or more people are banned by the state, while are gatherings of ten or more are no recommended by the CDC.
The Senate has also agreed to a House resolution to suspend the 2020 legislative session until March 31st. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s the right call
Casinos in Louisiana will be ceasing gaming operations tonight at midnight for at least the next two weeks as the coronavirus continues to impact Louisiana. Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board Ronnie Jones says the decision comes after discussions with the Governor’s staff throughout the weekend.
Cut 6 (11) “…public health standpoint.”
Jones estimates the lost state revenue will be about $1.6 million each day of the closure.
The Louisiana Department of Education will continue serving meals during the statewide school shutdown. Assistant State Superintendent Catherine Pozniak says the food service is made possible by waivers from the federal government, adding that more schools are working out the details of exactly how to best serve food.