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As of Monday, every state across America except for West Virginia has declared a state of emergency or a public health emergency in response to the coronavirus, which has caused more than 4,000 cases in the U.S. and at least 69 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Associated Press and Johns Hopkins University.
Here's how each state is handling the emergencies:
Alabama:
Gov. Kay Ivey declared a public health emergency in Alabama on March 13.
Ivey said all K-12 public schools will close after March 18 for a two-and-a-half-week break. Some schools were on spring break during part of this time.
“Folks, let’s take a common-sense approach and remember calm and steady win the race,” Ivey said in a news conference. “Alabamians should not be fearful but instead use common sense to watch out for ourselves and others.”
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Alaska:
Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy declared a public health disaster emergency on March 11 in response to the coronavirus, likening the illness to a “slow-moving storm coming our way.”
As of March 16, there is only one confirmed case of COVID-19 in Alaska. The state legislature approved Dunleavy’s request for about $4.1 million in state funds and authority to receive $9 million in federal funds to respond to the virus threat. Senators said additional funding could be needed later.
Arizona:
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey declared a public health emergency on March 11.
Though state officials have said there was no need to shut down schools statewide, multiple districts in metro Phoenix have announced closures.
Federal officials announced last week that the CDC will provide $11.2 million to Arizona to support the state’s efforts to respond to the virus.
Arkansas:
Gov. Asa Hutchinson declared a public health emergency in Arkansas on March 11.
“We're continuing to educate our children, we're continuing to produce and do business, but at the same time we have to address this challenge and we're doing it in a very quick fashion,” Hutchinson said on “Fox & Friends Weekend” on Sunday. “We have mobilized our emergency operations center, we're responding to the inquiries from the public through toll numbers and then we're utilizing our National Guard to provide support where needed.”
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California:
Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-Calif., declared a state of emergency on March 4, just hours after the state confirmed its first death due to coronavirus. There are now 458 cases in California, the third-highest amount in the country after Washington and New York.
Newsom also has called for the closure of all bars and wineries and for all Californians 65 and older to stay home in an effort to curb the outbreak.
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has invoked an executive order and closed all bars, night clubs and movie theaters until March 31.
Colorado:
Gov. Jared Polis declared a state of emergency March 10 to "help our state more effectively contain the spread of COVID-19 and avoid greater disruption."
Colorado also updated its testing criteria and expanded its descriptions of who can be tested shortly afterward.
Connecticut:
On March 10, Gov. Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency.
The governor invoked both a civil preparedness emergency and a public health emergency, giving him authority to act to protect the safety and health of residents in the state.
Nearly a week later, Lamont and the governors of New York and New Jersey collectively decided to shutter bars, restaurants and movie theaters in an attempt to stem the growing number of coronavirus cases.
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Delaware:
Gov. John Carney issued a state of emergency declaration on March 12.
The declaration "advises event organizers in Delaware to cancel non-essential public gatherings of 100 people or more, to prevent community spread of coronavirus" and "prohibits price gouging, or an excessive price increase of goods or services, during the coronavirus outbreak," his office says.
Florida:
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a state of emergency declaration on March 9 to help the state deal with the virus.
DeSantis, who had earlier declared a public health emergency, said it would help the state better respond to the virus.
The move came after a fourth person was confirmed to have the virus in Broward County. Five people so far have died as a result of coronavirus in the state.
"That allows us to create a unified command structure, it also allows, if need be, out-of-state medical personnel to operate in Florida," DeSantis said at a news conference. "It allows us to more swiftly purchase any necessary supplies including masks and materials and equipment necessary to set up field hospitals. It allows pharmacists to dispense up to 30-day emergency prescription refill of maintenance medication."
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Georgia:
Georgia, which is grappling with 121 confirmed cases as of March 16, declared a public health emergency days earlier.
That announcement came hours after Augusta National golf club said it would postpone the Masters tournament until a future date. Georgia’s March 24 presidential primaries will be postponed to May, election officials also said.
“The capacity of our health care system remains at the forefront of my mind as we prepare for local transmission,” Gov. Brian Kemp said.
Hawaii:
Gov. David Ige declared a state of emergency on March 4 after it emerged the Grand Princess cruise ship that carried California's first coronavirus fatality visited the four main Hawaiian islands.
"This emergency proclamation will give us the ability to move more quickly and efficiently in our efforts to protect our communities from the virus and provide emergency relief if, and when, it is necessary,” said Ige.
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Ohio:
Ohio declared a state of emergency on March 9.
Last week, Ohio's top health officials announced that there are likely over 100,000 undiagnosed cases of COVID-19 in the state thus far.
In an interview on "America's Newsroom", Gov. Mike DeWine said he had relied on experts in his decision to order school closings and ban mass gatherings of more than 100 people.
Idaho:
Gov. Brad Little signed a proactive emergency declaration on March 13, before the state recorded its first case.
"It allows the Governor more flexibility to expedite contracts and purchasing of supplies, and it aids in the state’s ability to access critical supplies such as respirators from the national stockpile," his office says. "In addition, the declaration includes provisions that allow the expedited renewal of licenses for nurses who have retired or left the profession."
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Illinois:
Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation, the state's version of a state of emergency, on March 9 after a series of cases were confirmed in Chicago. There are now 93 cases recorded across the state.
“We stand ready to put the full weight of state government in preparation for a full-fledged response when needed and will continue to update the public regularly, responsibly and honestly as the situation evolves," Pritzker said.
Indiana:
Gov. Eric Holcomb signed an executive order declaring a public health emergency to increase coordination across all levels of government in the state’s response to coronavirus.
“With the help of our federal, state and local partners, Indiana is responding to this case as we have planned and prepared for weeks,” Gov. Holcomb said. “The Hoosier who has been diagnosed has taken responsible steps to stay isolated.”
Indiana has 21 confirmed cases.
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Iowa:
Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency on March 9, which her office says allows "state agencies to utilize resources including personnel, equipment and facilities to perform activities necessary to prevent, contain and mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 virus."
Iowa, which as of March 16 has 22 confirmed cases, also has set up a 24/7 public hotline for residents who have questions about the coronavirus.
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Kansas:
Gov. Laura Kelly issued an emergency declaration for Kansas on March 12. It was announced as the state recorded its first COVID-19-related death.
“The safety and well-being of Kansans is our priority, first and foremost,” Kelly had said. “The landscape of COVID-19 is fast-changing. Today is evidence of that.”
Kentucky:
Kentucky declared a state of emergency on March 6, after the state's first case of COVID-19 was confirmed.
“We have been preparing and this was expected as the novel coronavirus spread throughout the world and into neighboring states,” Gov. Steve Beshear said. “We urge Kentuckians not to panic, and to continue taking precautionary steps to protect their health and that of those around them.”
Louisiana:
On March 11, Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a public health emergency related to the coronavirus.
He cited presumptive positive cases affecting Orleans, Jefferson, Iberia, St. Tammany, Caddo and Lafourche parishes. There are now 103 confirmed cases across the state.
"I am asking all Louisianans to remain vigilant and take important measures to protect their health and reduce the spread of illness," Edwards said. "This is a constantly changing situation."
Maine:
Gov. Janet Mills declared a state of civil emergency on March 15, urging hospital systems and health care providers in Maine to postpone nonurgent medical procedures, elective surgeries and appointments until further notice to relieve the strain on the state's health system.
Cases of the virus are growing in different parts of the state, with evidence of community transmission, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Maryland:
Gov. Larry Hogan, R-Md., declared a state of emergency on March 5 to ramp up Maryland's coordinated response after the state confirmed its first positive case of the novel coronavirus.
So far, 34 people there have tested positive for the virus.
Massachusetts:
The state of Massachusetts declared a state of emergency on March 10. Gov. Charlie Baker said it would give the administration more flexibility to respond to the outbreak.
"I urge employers and other large organizations to follow our example and limit or eliminate non-essential travel, limit or eliminate large events where possible, and explore telework where appropriate for your organization," he said. "We are also urging older adults and those with health issues to avoid large crowds and large events."
Michigan:
On March 10, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a state of emergency after two Michigan residents tested presumptive positive for coronavirus.
The goal was to "harness our resources across state government to slow the spread of the virus," she said.
Minnesota:
Gov. Tim Walz declared a state of emergency on March 13, while also recommending the cancellation and postponement of gatherings of 250 people or more, including concerts, conferences, arts performances and sporting events; ensuring space for “social distancing” of 6 feet per person at smaller events; and limiting gatherings of people at higher risk for severe illness to no more than 10 people.
“We need Minnesotans’ help on this. ... The idea that this is nothing is put to rest. This is a serious pandemic,” the governor said at a news conference. “While some people may feel invincible and strong, our neighbors are not. And I think it behooves all of us to follow these closely.”
Minnesota has 54 confirmed cases as of March 16.
Missouri:
Missouri, which has six confirmed cases as of March 16, announced a state of emergency on March 13.
"The state is also taking steps to expand COVID-19 testing capabilities through coordination with the University of Missouri and Washington University laboratories," Gov. Mike Parson's office says.
Montana:
Gov. Steve Bullock declared a state of emergency in Montana on March 12, before the state had its first confirmed case.
Nebraska:
Nebraska announced a state of emergency on March 13.
"All across the state, individuals, businesses, employers, and churches are stepping up to make plans to mitigate the impact of the virus," Gov. Pete Ricketts tweeted.
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Nevada:
Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak announced a state of emergency on March 12.
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New Hampshire:
Gov. Chris Sununu declared a state of emergency for New Hampshire on March 13.
"It is imperative that residents remain calm and work together to support each other as this situation evolves and changes," he posted on Twitter. "The one thing we know we can count on is the spirit of community - we all share and look after our neighbors in times of need."
New Jersey:
Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency on March 9 after 11 people in the Garden State tested positive.
“We are acting based on the facts on the ground and by the latest medical science,” Murphy said in a video statement on Twitter.
The New Jersey city of Hoboken, which sits across the river from New York City, is now imposing a stringent measure to combat the coronavirus outbreak -- an overnight curfew for all residents. The curfew is among the first and most far-reaching of such measures taken in the U.S. to limit the spread of the virus.
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New Mexico:
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a public health emergency on March 11, while advising that all large public events there be postponed to limit the spread of the virus.
“We are proactively and aggressively canceling large public events that we have control over,” she said. “And we are advising strongly that local government and the private sector follow suit.”
The Health Department has emphasized concerns about the elderly and plans to deploy public health nurses to assisted care facilities. About one-fifth of the population is over 65 in a state of 2.1 million, the Associated Press says.
New York:
Gov. Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency on March 7, after confirming 76 people had tested positive for the coronavirus statewide. That number has since jumped up to 746 cases across the state, with the vast majority in Westchester County.
“Westchester is an obvious problem for us,” the governor has said. “They talk about the contagion in clusters and the clusters tend to infect more and more people.”
New York City has since closed its public schools in addition to other unprecedented measures in hopes of curbing the spread of coronavirus.
North Carolina:
Gov. Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency on March 10. The Tar Heel state as of March 16 has 33 confirmed cases. During a press conference, Cooper said the state of emergency would allow increased flexibility with regards to drawing from federal funds -- as well as help protect consumers from price gouging.
"I ask all North Carolinians to take this seriously. Anyone can carry the virus to loved ones of friends who become ill. Protecting public health means being cautious and being prepared. Today we are both."
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North Dakota:
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum announced a state of emergency on March 13 and, days later, issued an executive order closing schools across the state for one week.
Burgum told reporters the declaration gives him the ability to activate the National Guard if necessary.
“We are making decisions based on facts, not on fear,” he added.
Ohio:
Gov. Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency in Ohio on March 9 after learning that three Ohioans from Cuyahoga County tested positive for COVID-19. He said: "It's important for us to take aggressive action to protect Ohioans."
Oregon:
Gov. Kate Brown declared a state of emergency in Oregon on March 8 after the Oregon Health Authority identified seven new cases in the state. There are now 39 there overall.
“This news is concerning for all Oregonians, but my resolve and that of my administration to address this public health crisis is unchanged,” she said. “This emergency declaration gives the Oregon Health Authority and the Office of Emergency Management all the resources at the state’s disposal to stem the spread of this disease. We will do everything it takes, within our power and in coordination with federal and local officials, to keep Oregonians safe.”
Pennsylvania:
Gov. Tom Wolf signed an emergency disaster declaration on March 6 to "provide increased support to state agencies involved in the response to the virus," his office says.
As of March 16, the state has 66 confirmed cases. Wolf also has ordered restaurants and bars in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties to close their dine-in facilities.
Rhode Island:
Gov. Gina M. Raimondo on March 10 declared a state of emergency allowing the state to access additional resources for its response to COVID-19.
The state announced new preparedness and response measures to support workers and nursing homes throughout the state.
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South Carolina:
South Carolina declared a public health emergency on March 13.
Gov. Henry McMaster, days later, ordered the closure of all the state's 1,250 public schools through March.
South Dakota:
South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem ordered a state of emergency on March 13 while simultaneously instructing public schools to close in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Noem said the drop-off in positive test results and the absence of signs of community spread was “encouraging” but took the step of ordering the state of emergency as a “proactive” measure.
Tennessee:
Gov. Bill Lee declared a state of emergency in Tennessee on March 12.
“While the risk to the general public remains low, we encourage all Tennesseans to exercise caution and maintain good hygiene practices as there are serious risks to our vulnerable populations," Lee said. "We will continue to evaluate and adapt our position accordingly to fit what we believe is best for Tennesseans.”
Texas:
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster on March 13.
The move restricts visitors at facilities like nursing homes, hospitals and prisons.
"The Governor reassured the public that stockpiling supplies is not necessary," Abbott's office said. "The State has been working closely with grocers and retailers to ensure shelves are replenished and that Texans have access to the goods and supplies they need."
Utah:
Utah's Gov. Gary Herbert issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in response to the outbreak on March 6.
“Our number one focus is preparing for the arrival of novel coronavirus,” Gov. Herbert said. “Issuing this declaration now allows us to take additional proactive steps that will make a big difference in how effectively we can respond once we start seeing COVID-19 diagnoses in Utah.”
Utah has 28 cases as of March 16.
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Vermont:
Gov. Phil Scott declared a state of emergency on March 13, banning most visitors to the state’s nursing homes and other long-term care facilities and prohibiting non-essential gatherings of more than 250 people.
″I know this will be very difficult for everyone involved, but we also know the residents of these facilities and those seeking care at our hospitals are most at risk and we must take short-term measures to protect them,” Scott said.
Scott’s action came after leaders of the Vermont Legislature decided Friday to suspend the current session through at least March 24 due to concerns about the spread of the virus. The statehouse will be deep cleaned during the break.
Virginia:
Gov. Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency for Virginia on March 12.
“From our health department to our schools to our hospitals to our transit systems, Virginia’s agencies and institutions have been thoroughly planning for every scenario," he said in a statement.
As of March 16, the state has 45 confirmed cases.
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Washington, D.C.
On March 11, Mayor Muriel Bowser declared both a state of emergency and a public health emergency.
The health department recommended postponing or canceling all non-essential mass gatherings through March 31. The Smithsonian Institution announced that its 19 museums and National Zoo in Washington, D.C. will temporarily close over the coronavirus.
Washington:
Gov. Jay Inslee, D-Wash., declared a state of emergency on Saturday just hours after his state saw the first death from coronavirus in the U.S. Currently, the virus has killed 42 in the state and infected nearly 730 others.
Facebook and Amazon, which is based in Seattle, have announced that two of their employees have tested positive for COVID-19.
Wisconsin:
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers declared a public health emergency on March 12.
The state, as of March 16, has 34 confirmed cases. An executive order signed by Evers allows its Department of Health Services "to purchase, store, or distribute appropriate medications, regardless of insurance or other health coverage, as needed to respond to the emergency."
Wyoming:
Gov. Mark Gordon declared a state of emergency and public health emergency on March 13.
“We continue to be most concerned about our state’s elderly and vulnerable populations and want to ensure we are taking all necessary steps to address what we may face going forward,” Gordon said in a news release.
He also urged people to reconsider and consult with health authorities before holding gatherings of more than 250 people.
Fox News' Travis Fedschun, Robert Gearty, Bradford Betz, Julia Musto, Edmund DeMarche, Nate Day, Talia Kaplan and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
