ATLANTA — Gov. Brian Kemp and other state officials on Wednesday announced plans to extend Georgia’s public health state of emergency through May 13.
Under state law, the governor may renew the public health state of emergency, which was otherwise set to expire on April 13, 2020. The public health state of emergency is distinct from the governor's shelter in place order, which for now is still set to expire on April 13.
Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan and House Speaker David Ralston agree it is necessary for the public health emergency to be renewed and will not be requesting a special legislative session, which was tentatively scheduled for April 15, according to a release.
“This measure will allow us to continue to deploy resources to communities in need, lend support to frontline medical providers, and keep preparing as we brace for potential patient surge in our healthcare facilities. We deeply appreciate the hard work of Georgians who are sheltering in place, using social distancing, and helping us flatten the curve. We are in this fight together,” Kemp said.
The governor added, "In these unprecedented times, we ask Georgians for their continued patience and prayers, especially for first responders, law enforcement, and the healthcare workers caring for the medically fragile. They are going above and beyond to keep us all safe, and we will never be able to repay them for their sacrifices.”
Lt. Gov. Duncan said he and Speaker Ralston were working with Kemp to "do all we can to make sure we are meeting the needs of every Georgian."
"The General Assembly will continue to remain vigilant and available to assist our citizens in any way possible," Duncan said.
Speaker Ralston said that "while we have difficult days ahead, we continue to coordinate with both local and federal partners in responding to needs as they arise"
"As Georgians, we will persevere and emerge stronger on the other side," he added.
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