May 18, 2020

ByAnnette Powers

 Union County announced an additional COVID-19 case today, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to six. Of the six Union County cases, three meet the Oregon Health Authority’s definition as recovered. The new COVID-19 case has been identified as having contact with a known case. Center for Human Development is working to complete the necessary contact tracing for those that meet the criteria. A close contact is defined as anyone within six feet of the individual for more than 15 minutes. If you are identified through this investigation as someone that may be at risk for COVID-19, public health will be in contact.

Baker County Circuit Court Judge Matt Shirtcliff ruled this morning that Governor Kate Brown’s executive orders relating to the coronavirus pandemic are null and void across the state. The ruling states that Brown has exceeded her authority by restricting activities, including church services and businesses, for longer than the 28 days authorized under state law. Judge Shirtcliff granted a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of the 10 executive orders the Governor has issued since March 8. In response, Governor Brown issued this statement: “Today’s ruling from the Baker County Circuit Court will be appealed to the Oregon Supreme Court within hours to keep my emergency orders in effect. This will ensure we can continue to safeguard the health of all Oregonians.” The Governor has requested an expedited review by the Oregon Supreme Court.

The La Grande School District has announced that tomorrow, May 19 will be the last distance learning packet issued for the school year, that will need to be returned. The packet issued on May 26 will be Summer Learning Resources, and will not require returning. Completion is encouraged for your student to continue learning through the summer months.

Statewide, Oregon Health Authority is reporting a total of 3,687 confirmed and presumptive cases. There were 62 additional cases reported today in the following counties: Benton (3), Clackamas (5), Clatsop (1), Deschutes (5), Jackson (1), Lane (1), Malheur (2), Marion (16), Multnomah (12), Umatilla (5), Union (1), Washington (10), Yamhill (2). Umatilla County Public Health announced late today a third COVID-19 related death and a total of 99 cases. Of the 99 cases, 76 have been reported as recovered.

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