INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb announced additional steps the state is taking to help fight the spread of the coronavirus.
As of noon Friday, 12 people in Indiana have tested positive for the virus, according to a press release from the governor's office.
The release was issued after President Donald Trump declared a national emergency.
MORE INFO | Trump declares national emergency regarding COVID-19 | RTV6's full coverage on the coronavirus
Holcomb is monitoring the ongoing situation and staying in contact with federal officials and the Indiana State Department of Health, according to the release.
State resources are being redirected as needed to help slow the spread of the circus, according to the release.
The release listed of additional actions the state is taking under Holcomb's direction:
- All state agencies are evaluating rules and regulations that should be suspended or modified to assist Hoosiers during this public emergency.
- Hoosiers who need to renew their Medicaid eligibility will get more time to complete the process. No services will be interrupted.
- Family Social Services Administration (FSSA) has asked federal officials to approve a request to temporarily waive the renewal process for Hoosiers who need SNAP or TANF benefits.
- Hoosiers on Medicaid will not pay co-pays for COVID-19 testing. More information is here.
- Hoosiers on Medicaid can get 90-day refills of medication for chronic conditions.
- State officials are collaborating with the Indiana Department of Education to discuss solutions regarding student assessments and meals for children whose schools have closed. DOE issued this guidance for schools regarding the 20-day waiver of the required 180 instructional days that Gov. Holcomb announced on Thursday.
- FSSA has given daycares specific guidance to protect children in their care. The latest guidance is here.
- Community meals for senior citizens are being converted to home meal deliveries. Local partners, such as Area Agencies on Aging, have been given funding flexibility to cover the added costs of delivering meals. Thousands of meals are being served daily.
- Every community has a child care resource and referral agency to connect parents with local child care options and provide referrals for support. Families can find their local Child Care Resource and Referral by calling 800-299-1627 or by consulting this map.
