When the COVID-19 pandemic first began, schools closed, businesses were told to temporarily shut their doors, and most took extra precautions to keep a distance between themselves and others.

As time went on and new information gathered concerning the way the novel coronavirus operates, some of the panic eased, and some restrictions were lifted in an effort to return to life as normally as possible while also attempting to save local economies.

However, as restrictions were lifted, the rate of infection drastically increased. It got to the point that local hospitals were so overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients that there was a fear of reaching maximum capacity for all patients. In addition, it is said that staffing is an issue at DCH as there are fewer nurses available than needed even with the addition of travel nurses from around the country. Full story.

Unfortunately, there remains a concern for the rate of positive diagnoses in Tuscaloosa and the ability to handle them, which has led Mayor Walt Maddox to consider bringing back the city’s State of Emergency, which would reduce bar occupancy after 9 p.m., reduce experience and entertainment venue occupancy to 25%, and end restaurant bar service at 9 p.m.

The council will vote on the potential State of Emergency declaration at its 6 p.m. meeting today.

Supporters contend that bringing the virus under control is crucial and that the sooner the rate of infection decreases, the sooner we can get back to life as we knew it.  Opponents argue the effect on the economy and violation of one’s rights.

Would you support another State of Emergency? What are your thoughts?

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