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Coronavirus Live Updates: Business Leaders Call for More Testing to Reopen U.S. Coronavirus Live Updates: Business Leaders Call for More Testing to Reopen U.S.
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When the first conference call of President Trump’s economic advisory council on reopening the economy was held Wednesday morning, several business executives echoed a cry that health officials and state and local leaders have been making for weeks, according to two participants: The country needs more testing.When the first conference call of President Trump’s economic advisory council on reopening the economy was held Wednesday morning, several business executives echoed a cry that health officials and state and local leaders have been making for weeks, according to two participants: The country needs more testing.
During the call with business leaders from retail, banking, financial services, hospitality and other industries, each executive was given a minute or two to provide his or her overview of what was needed to reopen the economy, according to the participants, who were granted anonymity to describe private communications. There appeared to be a wide consensus that more virus testing was needed to track who was infected and who might have immunity before employees could return to work.During the call with business leaders from retail, banking, financial services, hospitality and other industries, each executive was given a minute or two to provide his or her overview of what was needed to reopen the economy, according to the participants, who were granted anonymity to describe private communications. There appeared to be a wide consensus that more virus testing was needed to track who was infected and who might have immunity before employees could return to work.
But another issue of great concern to the executives on the call, one of the participants said, was the need to address the liability companies could face if employees were to get sick after returning to work. Workers who felt that they were brought back too soon or were not placed in an adequately safe environment could sue en masse. Details of the call were first reported by The Wall Street Journal.But another issue of great concern to the executives on the call, one of the participants said, was the need to address the liability companies could face if employees were to get sick after returning to work. Workers who felt that they were brought back too soon or were not placed in an adequately safe environment could sue en masse. Details of the call were first reported by The Wall Street Journal.
Asked about their call for more tests — after the slow rollout of testing hampered the nation’s ability to identify the outbreak and combat it — Mr. Trump said Wednesday evening that he agreed. But he cast it as something that the states should be working on — which was something of a departure from his insistence earlier this week that the president calls the shots when it comes to major decisions about the pandemic. Asked about their call for more tests — after the slow rollout of testing hampered the nation’s ability to identify the outbreak and combat it — Mr. Trump said Wednesday evening that he agreed. But he cast it as something that the states should be working on — which was something of a departure from his insistence this week that the president calls the shots when it comes to major decisions about the pandemic.
“It’s what I want too, and we have great tests, and we want the states to administer these tests for the most part,” Mr. Trump said.“It’s what I want too, and we have great tests, and we want the states to administer these tests for the most part,” Mr. Trump said.
Some executives were unable to join the call because of scheduling conflicts. David M. Solomon, the chief executive of Goldman Sachs, who was leading his own quarterly earnings call at the same time as the White House call, was one of them.Some executives were unable to join the call because of scheduling conflicts. David M. Solomon, the chief executive of Goldman Sachs, who was leading his own quarterly earnings call at the same time as the White House call, was one of them.
In an indication of his own viewpoint, Mr. Solomon — who noted during his earnings call that he had spoken to about 100 chief executives who were Goldman clients about the effects of the virus — said that “we have to rebuild confidence in people’s security and safety around the virus,” and that “unless people feel safe and secure and confident around the virus, the economic impact will continue in some way, shape or form.” In an indication of his own viewpoint, Mr. Solomon — who noted during his earnings call that he had spoken to about 100 chief executives who were Goldman clients about the effects of the virus — said that “unless people feel safe and secure and confident around the virus, the economic impact will continue in some way, shape or form.”
The White House began notifying members of Congress on Wednesday afternoon that they had been selected to serve on another task force to advise Mr. Trump on reopening the country. This one would be composed of Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate.The White House began notifying members of Congress on Wednesday afternoon that they had been selected to serve on another task force to advise Mr. Trump on reopening the country. This one would be composed of Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate.
In emails sent to offices on Capitol Hill, the White House Legislative Affairs Office did not so much invite the lawmakers — numbering at least a dozen — to participate in the task force as inform them that they were expected to serve.In emails sent to offices on Capitol Hill, the White House Legislative Affairs Office did not so much invite the lawmakers — numbering at least a dozen — to participate in the task force as inform them that they were expected to serve.
Senate Democrats on Wednesday unveiled a $30 billion plan to vastly ramp up the development, manufacturing and distribution of testing across the country, saying they would push to include it in the next round of government relief.Senate Democrats on Wednesday unveiled a $30 billion plan to vastly ramp up the development, manufacturing and distribution of testing across the country, saying they would push to include it in the next round of government relief.
Democrats said the national blueprint, which would include free testing and reporting mechanisms for testing and tracing, would be essential to eventually reopening the country.Democrats said the national blueprint, which would include free testing and reporting mechanisms for testing and tracing, would be essential to eventually reopening the country.
“Each state can’t have its own separate plan,” Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the minority leader, said in a telephone news conference with reporters. “We need a national plan.”“Each state can’t have its own separate plan,” Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the minority leader, said in a telephone news conference with reporters. “We need a national plan.”
The proposal would require the Trump administration to develop and enforce a national strategy to expand the country’s testing capacity and develop tests, and mandate widespread reporting about testing results, including tracking the demographics of people who tested positive.The proposal would require the Trump administration to develop and enforce a national strategy to expand the country’s testing capacity and develop tests, and mandate widespread reporting about testing results, including tracking the demographics of people who tested positive.
It comes as the lack of testing capacity has emerged as a signature failure of the Trump administration’s response and now threatens to hamper efforts across the country to plan for an eventual reopening of the economy. The issue is likely to emerge as yet another flash point for debate as Democrats and Republicans negotiate a fourth sweeping aid package to respond to the crisis. It comes as the lack of testing capacity has emerged as a signature failure of the Trump administration’s response and now threatens to hamper efforts across the country to plan for an eventual reopening of the economy.
In California, officials say ramping up testing is a major priority before they can begin lifting stay-at-home orders there. Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles announced Tuesday that anyone with symptoms could get a test in one day.In California, officials say ramping up testing is a major priority before they can begin lifting stay-at-home orders there. Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles announced Tuesday that anyone with symptoms could get a test in one day.
The state’s rate of infection and the number of deaths have been substantially lower than rates in other areas, but testing has been slower there than in New York, according to The Covid-19 Tracking Project.The state’s rate of infection and the number of deaths have been substantially lower than rates in other areas, but testing has been slower there than in New York, according to The Covid-19 Tracking Project.
President Trump’s public campaign against the World Health Organization — and his order to freeze all money to the group in the middle of a pandemic — is the culmination of mounting anger among his White House advisers, Republican lawmakers and conservative news media about the organization’s lavish praise of China’s response to the coronavirus.President Trump’s public campaign against the World Health Organization — and his order to freeze all money to the group in the middle of a pandemic — is the culmination of mounting anger among his White House advisers, Republican lawmakers and conservative news media about the organization’s lavish praise of China’s response to the coronavirus.
Mr. Trump’s decision to attack the W.H.O., a unit of the United Nations, comes as he is under intense fire at home for his administration’s failure to respond aggressively to the virus, which as of Wednesday had claimed more than 25,000 lives in the United States and infected at least 600,000 people in all 50 states.Mr. Trump’s decision to attack the W.H.O., a unit of the United Nations, comes as he is under intense fire at home for his administration’s failure to respond aggressively to the virus, which as of Wednesday had claimed more than 25,000 lives in the United States and infected at least 600,000 people in all 50 states.
The director general of the organization on Wednesday expressed dismay that Mr. Trump was calling to halt its funding as it fights the pandemic.The director general of the organization on Wednesday expressed dismay that Mr. Trump was calling to halt its funding as it fights the pandemic.
“W.H.O. is not only fighting Covid-19,” Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. “We’re also working to address polio, measles, malaria, Ebola, H.I.V., tuberculosis, malnutrition, cancer, diabetes, mental health and many other diseases and conditions.”“W.H.O. is not only fighting Covid-19,” Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. “We’re also working to address polio, measles, malaria, Ebola, H.I.V., tuberculosis, malnutrition, cancer, diabetes, mental health and many other diseases and conditions.”
Dr. Robert R. Redfield, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, praised the organization on Wednesday in tones at odds with the president’s harsh criticism. He told “CBS This Morning” that questions about the W.H.O.’s pandemic response should be left until “after we get through this.”Dr. Robert R. Redfield, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, praised the organization on Wednesday in tones at odds with the president’s harsh criticism. He told “CBS This Morning” that questions about the W.H.O.’s pandemic response should be left until “after we get through this.”
Speaker Nancy Pelosi sharply denounced Mr. Trump’s call to halt funding, promising on Wednesday to “swiftly challenge” the move and calling it “dangerous” and “illegal.”Speaker Nancy Pelosi sharply denounced Mr. Trump’s call to halt funding, promising on Wednesday to “swiftly challenge” the move and calling it “dangerous” and “illegal.”
Congress had already appropriated funding to the organization, but the Trump administration has previously diverted allocated funds to other programs without the legislative branch signing off.Congress had already appropriated funding to the organization, but the Trump administration has previously diverted allocated funds to other programs without the legislative branch signing off.
The president’s decision came amid concerns about the W.H.O.’s approach to China. Inside the West Wing, officials said, there was near-unanimous agreement among the president’s advisers that the W.H.O. was heavily influenced by the Chinese government and too slow to sound the alarm because it trusted China’s assurances that the virus was under control and did not pose a global threat.The president’s decision came amid concerns about the W.H.O.’s approach to China. Inside the West Wing, officials said, there was near-unanimous agreement among the president’s advisers that the W.H.O. was heavily influenced by the Chinese government and too slow to sound the alarm because it trusted China’s assurances that the virus was under control and did not pose a global threat.
That belief has been amplified by some of the president’s top allies in Congress and the right-wing news media, who share deep suspicions about the Chinese government and were furious when W.H.O. officials said aggressive action by China was crucial to slowing the spread of the virus outside its borders.That belief has been amplified by some of the president’s top allies in Congress and the right-wing news media, who share deep suspicions about the Chinese government and were furious when W.H.O. officials said aggressive action by China was crucial to slowing the spread of the virus outside its borders.
A top W.H.O. official said in mid-February that restrictive measures adopted by China had delayed the spread of the virus to other countries, saying, “Right now, the strategic and tactical approach in China is the correct one.”
Many of the president’s closest aides — including Peter Navarro, his trade adviser — and key members of the National Security Council have long been suspicious of China. Mr. Trump himself has often offered contradictory messages about the country, repeatedly complimenting President Xi Jinping even as he wages a fierce, on-again, off-again trade war.
On Jan. 24, about a month after the virus was discovered there, Mr. Trump tweeted: “China has been working very hard to contain the Coronavirus. The United States greatly appreciates their efforts and transparency.”
But White House officials said that even the public health officials dealing with the pandemic were in agreement that the W.H.O. had been too cozy with China’s government during the crisis.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce said that it supported an overhaul of the W.H.O. but added that “cutting the W.H.O.’s funding during the Covid-19 pandemic is not in U.S. interests given the organization’s critical role assisting other countries — particularly in the developing world — in their response.”
Millions of high school students across the country will be able to take at-home, digital versions of the SAT and ACT, the widely used standardized tests for college admissions, if the pandemic forces schools to remain closed in the fall.Millions of high school students across the country will be able to take at-home, digital versions of the SAT and ACT, the widely used standardized tests for college admissions, if the pandemic forces schools to remain closed in the fall.
The College Board, which administers the SAT, gave few details in an announcement on Wednesday about what the at-home test would look like or how it would differ from the traditional test, which is normally taken on paper in a highly secure setting under the watchful eyes of proctors.The College Board, which administers the SAT, gave few details in an announcement on Wednesday about what the at-home test would look like or how it would differ from the traditional test, which is normally taken on paper in a highly secure setting under the watchful eyes of proctors.
The organization has already announced that it will administer Advanced Placement tests at home in May because of the virus, which forced the cancellation of SAT testing dates this spring, including into June, The College Board said on Wednesday. The A.P. tests — a kind of dress rehearsal for the fall — will be open book and truncated to 45 minutes from about three hours. The College Board’s counterpart, the ACT, also said Wednesday that it would offer an at-home option.The organization has already announced that it will administer Advanced Placement tests at home in May because of the virus, which forced the cancellation of SAT testing dates this spring, including into June, The College Board said on Wednesday. The A.P. tests — a kind of dress rehearsal for the fall — will be open book and truncated to 45 minutes from about three hours. The College Board’s counterpart, the ACT, also said Wednesday that it would offer an at-home option.
The proposal for at-home testing is an implicit admission that the pandemic is threatening the industry’s test delivery and business model. Over the last month, a growing number of colleges have announced that they will suspend the requirement for applicants to submit standardized test results because of the disruption caused by the virus, accelerating a trend that was already taking place.The proposal for at-home testing is an implicit admission that the pandemic is threatening the industry’s test delivery and business model. Over the last month, a growing number of colleges have announced that they will suspend the requirement for applicants to submit standardized test results because of the disruption caused by the virus, accelerating a trend that was already taking place.
Standardized tests have been widely criticized for exacerbating economic inequality. Critics say they penalize children from poor families who have less access to practice tests, preparation materials and tutors to help raise their scores — and that at-home options would make accessibility worse.Standardized tests have been widely criticized for exacerbating economic inequality. Critics say they penalize children from poor families who have less access to practice tests, preparation materials and tutors to help raise their scores — and that at-home options would make accessibility worse.
“It’s different if you’re taking the test in a one-room apartment with 17 relatives in the background,” said Akil Bello, a senior director at FairTest, an organization that opposes the use of standardized tests in college admissions.“It’s different if you’re taking the test in a one-room apartment with 17 relatives in the background,” said Akil Bello, a senior director at FairTest, an organization that opposes the use of standardized tests in college admissions.
The College Board, a nonprofit that brings in more than $1 billion in revenue a year, said in a statement on Wednesday that it would strive to make the SAT “accessible to all,” acknowledging that “families hit hardest are often those with the fewest resources.” But it did not specify how it planned to address those disparities.The College Board, a nonprofit that brings in more than $1 billion in revenue a year, said in a statement on Wednesday that it would strive to make the SAT “accessible to all,” acknowledging that “families hit hardest are often those with the fewest resources.” But it did not specify how it planned to address those disparities.
Universities have seen major financial losses after closing down their campuses to stop the spread of the virus. Many are anticipating a significant enrollment drop in the fall, especially from foreign students, who usually pay full tuition and help keep schools afloat.Universities have seen major financial losses after closing down their campuses to stop the spread of the virus. Many are anticipating a significant enrollment drop in the fall, especially from foreign students, who usually pay full tuition and help keep schools afloat.
Some institutions are projecting $100 million losses for the spring, and many are now bracing for an even bigger financial hit in the fall, when some are planning for the possibility of continuing remote classes. The universities anticipate that many students will choose not to return for online learning or may need to take a gap year or choose less expensive educational options amid widespread unemployment. A higher education trade group has predicted a 15 percent drop in enrollment nationwide.Some institutions are projecting $100 million losses for the spring, and many are now bracing for an even bigger financial hit in the fall, when some are planning for the possibility of continuing remote classes. The universities anticipate that many students will choose not to return for online learning or may need to take a gap year or choose less expensive educational options amid widespread unemployment. A higher education trade group has predicted a 15 percent drop in enrollment nationwide.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said Wednesday that he would order people statewide to don facial coverings while in public if they were unable to stay six feet away from others. The measure will take effect on Saturday.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said Wednesday that he would order people statewide to don facial coverings while in public if they were unable to stay six feet away from others. The measure will take effect on Saturday.
“If you’re going to be in public and you cannot maintain social distancing, then have a mask and put the mask on,” said Mr. Cuomo, who held out the possibility of civil penalties for violations.“If you’re going to be in public and you cannot maintain social distancing, then have a mask and put the mask on,” said Mr. Cuomo, who held out the possibility of civil penalties for violations.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority said in a statement on Wednesday that all subway riders in New York City would be required to wear face coverings when using public transit beginning Friday.The Metropolitan Transportation Authority said in a statement on Wednesday that all subway riders in New York City would be required to wear face coverings when using public transit beginning Friday.
The C.D.C. recommends that people wear cloth face coverings to prevent transmission of the virus, which primarily spreads through droplets generated when, for instance, an infected person coughs or sneezes. The recommendation, which is intended to protect not those covering their faces but those around them, came after research showed that many people were infected but did not show symptoms. (Public health officials have warned against buying or hoarding the N95 masks needed by health care workers.)The C.D.C. recommends that people wear cloth face coverings to prevent transmission of the virus, which primarily spreads through droplets generated when, for instance, an infected person coughs or sneezes. The recommendation, which is intended to protect not those covering their faces but those around them, came after research showed that many people were infected but did not show symptoms. (Public health officials have warned against buying or hoarding the N95 masks needed by health care workers.)
Health officials have urged people to combine face coverings with adhering to social-distancing rules, suggesting that one tactic did not replace the need for the other. Further complicating the matter, scientists agree that while six feet is a sensible and useful minimum distance for people to separate when possible, some say that farther away would be better.Health officials have urged people to combine face coverings with adhering to social-distancing rules, suggesting that one tactic did not replace the need for the other. Further complicating the matter, scientists agree that while six feet is a sensible and useful minimum distance for people to separate when possible, some say that farther away would be better.
Sneezes, for instance, can propel droplets a lot farther than six feet, according to a recent study, and as a Times 3-D simulation shows.Sneezes, for instance, can propel droplets a lot farther than six feet, according to a recent study, and as a Times 3-D simulation shows.
Earlier Wednesday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said that New York City grocery stores should begin to require customers to wear face coverings to enter. But Mr. Cuomo’s action went further, and a spokeswoman for the governor said his order was the “next logical step” building on the mayor’s move.Earlier Wednesday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said that New York City grocery stores should begin to require customers to wear face coverings to enter. But Mr. Cuomo’s action went further, and a spokeswoman for the governor said his order was the “next logical step” building on the mayor’s move.
Mr. Cuomo’s announcement came soon after he said that the virus had killed at least 752 people in New York on Tuesday, swelling the state’s official death toll to at least 11,586.Mr. Cuomo’s announcement came soon after he said that the virus had killed at least 752 people in New York on Tuesday, swelling the state’s official death toll to at least 11,586.
The state government’s tally does not include the more than 3,700 people in New York City who died without being tested and are now presumed to have died of the virus. The state’s fatality count could change, Mr. Cuomo cautioned, as officials worked with nursing homes and other facilities to tally the number of deaths that could be traced to the pandemic.The state government’s tally does not include the more than 3,700 people in New York City who died without being tested and are now presumed to have died of the virus. The state’s fatality count could change, Mr. Cuomo cautioned, as officials worked with nursing homes and other facilities to tally the number of deaths that could be traced to the pandemic.
Thousands of demonstrators, who remained mostly in vehicles, on Wednesday surrounded the State Capitol in Lansing, Mich., accusing Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of going too far with stay-at-home orders.Thousands of demonstrators, who remained mostly in vehicles, on Wednesday surrounded the State Capitol in Lansing, Mich., accusing Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of going too far with stay-at-home orders.
The orders by Ms. Whitmer, a Democrat, are among the strictest in the nation, barring residents from crossing the street to visit neighbors or driving to see friends.The orders by Ms. Whitmer, a Democrat, are among the strictest in the nation, barring residents from crossing the street to visit neighbors or driving to see friends.
The organizers of the demonstration, the Michigan Conservative Coalition and the Michigan Freedom Fund, had asked protesters to honk horns and to display flags and signs. Given the risk of viral transmission when assembling in a crowd, they cautioned drivers not to leave their cars for what they called “Operation Gridlock.”The organizers of the demonstration, the Michigan Conservative Coalition and the Michigan Freedom Fund, had asked protesters to honk horns and to display flags and signs. Given the risk of viral transmission when assembling in a crowd, they cautioned drivers not to leave their cars for what they called “Operation Gridlock.”
But as the sound of car horns filled the air and signs and banners proclaimed “Live Free or Die,” “Make Michigan Work Again” and “We Deem Our Governor Non-Essential,” a few dozen people protested on foot, most of them maskless, in front of the statehouse.But as the sound of car horns filled the air and signs and banners proclaimed “Live Free or Die,” “Make Michigan Work Again” and “We Deem Our Governor Non-Essential,” a few dozen people protested on foot, most of them maskless, in front of the statehouse.
From the top of the steps, they chanted “freedom, freedom, freedom,” waving American flags and at least one “Trump 2020” flag. Earlier, the state police had said that there would be very little enforcement action unless they saw a threat of violence.From the top of the steps, they chanted “freedom, freedom, freedom,” waving American flags and at least one “Trump 2020” flag. Earlier, the state police had said that there would be very little enforcement action unless they saw a threat of violence.
Denny Bradley, 33, told the Detroit News that he was the sole breadwinner for his family and that his employer, an auto supplier, had been shut down for three weeks. He carried a sign that read, “I want to work.”Denny Bradley, 33, told the Detroit News that he was the sole breadwinner for his family and that his employer, an auto supplier, had been shut down for three weeks. He carried a sign that read, “I want to work.”
Michigan has recorded about 27,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 1,700 deaths. Ms. Whitmer has said the state must stay the course with its decision to close businesses and restrict movement.Michigan has recorded about 27,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 1,700 deaths. Ms. Whitmer has said the state must stay the course with its decision to close businesses and restrict movement.
Other states have also seen protests in recent days. A demonstration on Tuesday in Raleigh, N.C., resulted in arrests of protesters, some of whom were standing close to one another and carrying signs that said “Reopen N.C.” In Columbus, Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine said last week that he could hear protesters chanting their opposition to his stay-at-home orders, and that he understood their frustration and supported their right to protest.Other states have also seen protests in recent days. A demonstration on Tuesday in Raleigh, N.C., resulted in arrests of protesters, some of whom were standing close to one another and carrying signs that said “Reopen N.C.” In Columbus, Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine said last week that he could hear protesters chanting their opposition to his stay-at-home orders, and that he understood their frustration and supported their right to protest.
Dr. Deborah L. Birx, the coronavirus response coordinator for the White House, offered a road map on Wednesday on which states could be the first to ease stay-at-home orders and reopen businesses — a target date that President Trump said could be before May 1.
“We do have nine states that have less than 1,000 cases and less than 30 new cases per day,” Dr. Birx said during the daily news briefing in the Rose Garden.
She did not list the states, but data compiled by The New York Times suggested that they were Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Vermont and West Virginia.
Governors and mayors would make the call on lifting restrictions after receiving guidance from the federal government, which would be announced Thursday, Dr. Birx said.
Moments earlier, Mr. Trump said that governors, whom he did not name, were “chomping at the bit to get going.” But Dr. Birx warned that it was no time for Americans to become complacent about social distancing.
“I will remind the people again: This is a highly contagious virus. Social gatherings, coming together — there is a chance an asymptomatic person can spread it unknowingly,” she said. “Don’t have that dinner party for 20 yet.”
Dr. Birx said the task force was closely monitoring the situation in Rhode Island, where public health officials had reported more than 3,500 cases statewide and more than 800 in Providence as of Wednesday. The state’s location between New York and Boston had contributed to the spike in cases, Dr. Birx said: “They’re caught between two incredible hot spots in the country.”
Gov. Gavin Newsom of California said on Wednesday that the state would extend aid to undocumented workers, many of whom harvest the fruits and vegetables Americans eat, care for the sick and build homes, but who have been unable to get federal relief during the pandemic.Gov. Gavin Newsom of California said on Wednesday that the state would extend aid to undocumented workers, many of whom harvest the fruits and vegetables Americans eat, care for the sick and build homes, but who have been unable to get federal relief during the pandemic.
“Ten percent of California’s work force is undocumented,” he said. “And many mixed-status families are having a hard time taking care of their own children, and taking care of you and your loved ones in skilled nursing facilities, on the job site, making sure your food is being procured and distributed.”“Ten percent of California’s work force is undocumented,” he said. “And many mixed-status families are having a hard time taking care of their own children, and taking care of you and your loved ones in skilled nursing facilities, on the job site, making sure your food is being procured and distributed.”
Undocumented workers, the governor noted, paid more than $2.5 billion in local and state taxes last year and are “quite literally putting themselves on the line” in the pandemic, since they are overrepresented in industries that have been deemed essential, such as food service, health care, construction, agriculture and logistics.Undocumented workers, the governor noted, paid more than $2.5 billion in local and state taxes last year and are “quite literally putting themselves on the line” in the pandemic, since they are overrepresented in industries that have been deemed essential, such as food service, health care, construction, agriculture and logistics.
Mr. Newsom said that $75 million would come from the state’s disaster relief fund, and that a network of philanthropic organizations had committed to raise another $50 million.Mr. Newsom said that $75 million would come from the state’s disaster relief fund, and that a network of philanthropic organizations had committed to raise another $50 million.
Laurene Powell Jobs, the founder and president of Emerson Collective, which contributed to the fund, said in a statement: “With the federal government and so many states failing to provide undocumented immigrants the economic and health supports all Americans deserve, I hope that corporations, foundations and individuals across the country will join us in providing the emergency relief these members of our community need to weather this challenging time.”Laurene Powell Jobs, the founder and president of Emerson Collective, which contributed to the fund, said in a statement: “With the federal government and so many states failing to provide undocumented immigrants the economic and health supports all Americans deserve, I hope that corporations, foundations and individuals across the country will join us in providing the emergency relief these members of our community need to weather this challenging time.”
In a news release, Mr. Newsom’s office said about 150,000 undocumented Californians would receive a one-time cash benefit of $500 per adult, with a household cap of $1,000, to address any needs related to the pandemic.In a news release, Mr. Newsom’s office said about 150,000 undocumented Californians would receive a one-time cash benefit of $500 per adult, with a household cap of $1,000, to address any needs related to the pandemic.
That $125 million sum is not enough, the governor said, “but it’s a good start.”That $125 million sum is not enough, the governor said, “but it’s a good start.”
The Navy is looking into whether it can reinstate Capt. Brett E. Crozier, who was removed from command of the carrier Theodore Roosevelt after he pleaded for more help fighting a novel coronavirus outbreak aboard his ship, Defense Department officials said on Wednesday.The Navy is looking into whether it can reinstate Capt. Brett E. Crozier, who was removed from command of the carrier Theodore Roosevelt after he pleaded for more help fighting a novel coronavirus outbreak aboard his ship, Defense Department officials said on Wednesday.
Adm. Michael M. Gilday, the chief of naval operations, has indicated that he may reinstate Captain Crozier, who is viewed as a hero by his crew for putting their lives above his career, officials said.Adm. Michael M. Gilday, the chief of naval operations, has indicated that he may reinstate Captain Crozier, who is viewed as a hero by his crew for putting their lives above his career, officials said.
“No final decisions have been made,” Cmdr. Nate Christensen, a spokesman for Admiral Gilday, said in a statement to The Times on Wednesday. Commander Christensen added that Admiral Gilday was reviewing the findings of a preliminary investigation into the events surrounding Captain Crozier’s removal.“No final decisions have been made,” Cmdr. Nate Christensen, a spokesman for Admiral Gilday, said in a statement to The Times on Wednesday. Commander Christensen added that Admiral Gilday was reviewing the findings of a preliminary investigation into the events surrounding Captain Crozier’s removal.
But Admiral Gilday’s decision could be upended by President Trump, who has not been shy about intervening in military personnel cases. Only five months ago, Mr. Trump fired Navy Secretary Richard V. Spencer for opposing the president’s intervention in support of a Navy SEAL accused of murdering a wounded captive with a hunting knife during a deployment to Iraq in 2017.But Admiral Gilday’s decision could be upended by President Trump, who has not been shy about intervening in military personnel cases. Only five months ago, Mr. Trump fired Navy Secretary Richard V. Spencer for opposing the president’s intervention in support of a Navy SEAL accused of murdering a wounded captive with a hunting knife during a deployment to Iraq in 2017.
No one in the Navy wants a repeat of those events, which came complete with Mr. Trump on Twitter admonishing the Navy leadership’s handling of the SEAL case. But Navy officials insist that Admiral Gilday will make a decision based on the findings of the investigation into the Roosevelt crisis, and not on what he thinks the president wants him to do.No one in the Navy wants a repeat of those events, which came complete with Mr. Trump on Twitter admonishing the Navy leadership’s handling of the SEAL case. But Navy officials insist that Admiral Gilday will make a decision based on the findings of the investigation into the Roosevelt crisis, and not on what he thinks the president wants him to do.
Mr. Trump has indicated he may be open to reassessing the events around Captain Crozier’s firing. He said recently that Captain Crozier “made a mistake,” but he also noted that the captain “had a bad day.”Mr. Trump has indicated he may be open to reassessing the events around Captain Crozier’s firing. He said recently that Captain Crozier “made a mistake,” but he also noted that the captain “had a bad day.”
Captain Crozier, who is in isolation on Guam with coronavirus, was removed from command on April 2 by Thomas B. Modly, the acting Navy secretary at the time, a move that drew outrage among the carrier’s crew and across the country and eventually led to Mr. Modly’s resignation.Captain Crozier, who is in isolation on Guam with coronavirus, was removed from command on April 2 by Thomas B. Modly, the acting Navy secretary at the time, a move that drew outrage among the carrier’s crew and across the country and eventually led to Mr. Modly’s resignation.
Funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, an initiative created by the $2.2 trillion stimulus law to help small businesses weather the crisis, could run out as early as Wednesday night, amid a standoff in Congress over replenishing it.Funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, an initiative created by the $2.2 trillion stimulus law to help small businesses weather the crisis, could run out as early as Wednesday night, amid a standoff in Congress over replenishing it.
“Now 700,000 small business applications are in limbo & no new loans will be made until the game of chicken in Congress ends & additional $ approved,” Senator Marco Rubio, Republican of Florida, wrote on Twitter. “Inexcusable.”“Now 700,000 small business applications are in limbo & no new loans will be made until the game of chicken in Congress ends & additional $ approved,” Senator Marco Rubio, Republican of Florida, wrote on Twitter. “Inexcusable.”
As of early Wednesday afternoon, more than 1.3 million loans had been approved at a value of close to $300 billion, according to a person with knowledge of the numbers.As of early Wednesday afternoon, more than 1.3 million loans had been approved at a value of close to $300 billion, according to a person with knowledge of the numbers.
But congressional leaders and the Trump administration have failed to reach agreement on adding hundreds of billions of dollars to replenish the program, hamstrung by a dispute over whether to implement sweeping changes to how it allocates loans to businesses across the country. But congressional leaders and the Trump administration have failed to reach agreement on adding hundreds of billions of dollars to replenish the program, hamstrung by a dispute over whether to enact sweeping changes to how it allocates loans to businesses across the country.
The desperate situation reflects the fitful nature of the government’s efforts to carry out the hulking stimulus plan, a measure that was hastily negotiated by Congress and the administration as both faced intense pressure to respond to an extraordinary public health and economic catastrophe. Economists warned at the time that the package allocated too little for small businesses and ran the risk of steering too much of that money away from companies that needed it the most.The desperate situation reflects the fitful nature of the government’s efforts to carry out the hulking stimulus plan, a measure that was hastily negotiated by Congress and the administration as both faced intense pressure to respond to an extraordinary public health and economic catastrophe. Economists warned at the time that the package allocated too little for small businesses and ran the risk of steering too much of that money away from companies that needed it the most.
The small-business loan program — which enjoys broad bipartisan support — was among the first to be unveiled, and its introduction has been plagued with problems even as businesses have inundated banks with requests for a piece of the aid.The small-business loan program — which enjoys broad bipartisan support — was among the first to be unveiled, and its introduction has been plagued with problems even as businesses have inundated banks with requests for a piece of the aid.
Administration officials and congressional Republicans have been pushing for a quick infusion of cash to keep the program going. But while they support the additional spending, Democrats have insisted on attaching new restrictions to ensure the money flows to minority-owned businesses and other companies that are traditionally disadvantaged in the lending market. They also want to add more money for hospitals, food-stamp recipients and state and local governments whose tax collections have plunged as their expenses mount.Administration officials and congressional Republicans have been pushing for a quick infusion of cash to keep the program going. But while they support the additional spending, Democrats have insisted on attaching new restrictions to ensure the money flows to minority-owned businesses and other companies that are traditionally disadvantaged in the lending market. They also want to add more money for hospitals, food-stamp recipients and state and local governments whose tax collections have plunged as their expenses mount.
Republicans have refused to do either, saying that policy debates and additional funding should be considered later in light of the program’s dire state. But Ms. Pelosi, the speaker, warned again on Wednesday that the Republican proposal would not pass the House, saying in a statement that it failed to address “critical issues.” Republicans have refused to do either, saying that policy debates and additional funding should be considered later in light of the program’s dire state. But Speaker Nancy Pelosi warned again on Wednesday that the Republican proposal would not pass the House, saying in a statement that it failed to address “critical issues.”
Mr. Schumer, the minority leader, spoke on Wednesday with Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, in an effort to restart talks, and their aides were to confer later in the day. But it is unclear if any agreement struck between Democrats and the administration would be palatable to Senate Republicans, particularly with lawmakers scheduled to remain in their respective districts and states until early May. Senator Chuck Schumer, the minority leader, spoke on Wednesday with Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, in an effort to restart talks, and their aides were to confer later in the day. But it is unclear if any agreement struck between Democrats and the administration would be palatable to Senate Republicans, particularly with lawmakers scheduled to remain in their respective districts and states until early May.
Retail sales plunged in March as businesses shuttered from coast to coast and wary shoppers restricted their spending, a drop that was by far the largest in the nearly three decades the government has tracked the data.Retail sales plunged in March as businesses shuttered from coast to coast and wary shoppers restricted their spending, a drop that was by far the largest in the nearly three decades the government has tracked the data.
Total sales, which include retail purchases in stores and online as well as auto and gasoline sales and money spent at bars and restaurants, fell 8.7 percent from the previous month, the Commerce Department said Wednesday.Total sales, which include retail purchases in stores and online as well as auto and gasoline sales and money spent at bars and restaurants, fell 8.7 percent from the previous month, the Commerce Department said Wednesday.
The situation has almost certainly worsened since then. Most states didn’t shut down nonessential businesses until late March or early April.The situation has almost certainly worsened since then. Most states didn’t shut down nonessential businesses until late March or early April.
What happens to retail matters to the broader economy. The sector accounts for more than one in 10 U.S. jobs; only health care employs more. Its stores generate billions of dollars in rent for commercial landlords, ad sales for local media outlets, and sales-tax receipts for state and local governments.What happens to retail matters to the broader economy. The sector accounts for more than one in 10 U.S. jobs; only health care employs more. Its stores generate billions of dollars in rent for commercial landlords, ad sales for local media outlets, and sales-tax receipts for state and local governments.
If retailers survive and can quickly reopen and rehire workers, then the eventual economic recovery could be relatively swift. But the failure of a large share of businesses would lead to prolonged unemployment and a much slower rebound.If retailers survive and can quickly reopen and rehire workers, then the eventual economic recovery could be relatively swift. But the failure of a large share of businesses would lead to prolonged unemployment and a much slower rebound.
But programs meant to support businesses, including government-backed loans and grants to keep businesses afloat, have gotten off to a rocky start.But programs meant to support businesses, including government-backed loans and grants to keep businesses afloat, have gotten off to a rocky start.
“They need lifeboats, and the lifeboats aren’t getting out there fast enough,” said Diane Swonk, chief economist at Grant Thornton. “This is a time when speed matters more than bureaucracy.”“They need lifeboats, and the lifeboats aren’t getting out there fast enough,” said Diane Swonk, chief economist at Grant Thornton. “This is a time when speed matters more than bureaucracy.”
Facing the news about the plunge in retail and a slump in factory output, stocks tumbled on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 closing down more than 2 percent. Stocks in Europe were also lower, and Asia had a downbeat day.Facing the news about the plunge in retail and a slump in factory output, stocks tumbled on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 closing down more than 2 percent. Stocks in Europe were also lower, and Asia had a downbeat day.
The retreat came one day after the S&P 500 hit a one-month high. Stocks have been steadily climbing in recent weeks, with the occasional pullback, as investors have begun to focus on the prospect of an eventual rebound from the economic collapse prompted by the pandemic.The retreat came one day after the S&P 500 hit a one-month high. Stocks have been steadily climbing in recent weeks, with the occasional pullback, as investors have begun to focus on the prospect of an eventual rebound from the economic collapse prompted by the pandemic.
But they’ve also been confronted by a number of developments that highlight just how badly the economy is faring right now.But they’ve also been confronted by a number of developments that highlight just how badly the economy is faring right now.
Children in Denmark returned to school and day care on Wednesday after five weeks of closings, as the country began to ease its restrictive measures to curb the spread of the virus.Children in Denmark returned to school and day care on Wednesday after five weeks of closings, as the country began to ease its restrictive measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Denmark was one of a handful of European countries that have slowly and tentatively begun lifting constraints on daily life this week, providing an early litmus test of whether Western countries can gingerly restart their economies and restore basic freedoms without another round of infections.Denmark was one of a handful of European countries that have slowly and tentatively begun lifting constraints on daily life this week, providing an early litmus test of whether Western countries can gingerly restart their economies and restore basic freedoms without another round of infections.
The pandemic passed 2 million confirmed infections and 120,000 deaths worldwide on Wednesday — bleak markers that experts say vastly understate the true spread and toll of the contagion because of a lack of testing. The pandemic passed 2 million confirmed cases and 120,000 deaths worldwide on Wednesday — bleak markers that experts say vastly understate the true spread and toll of the contagion because of a lack of testing.
The figures have roughly doubled in 13 days and continue to grow steadily.The figures have roughly doubled in 13 days and continue to grow steadily.
Outbreaks in many parts of the world are still considered far from their peaks, but some European countries are beginning to ease their restrictions.Outbreaks in many parts of the world are still considered far from their peaks, but some European countries are beginning to ease their restrictions.
Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s crisis, reopened some bookshops and children’s clothing stores on Tuesday. Spain allowed workers to return to factories and construction sites, despite a daily death toll that remains over 500. The Finnish government on Wednesday was set to reopen the borders of the southern region of Uusimaa, which includes Helsinki, the capital. The area has been sealed off since March 28.Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s crisis, reopened some bookshops and children’s clothing stores on Tuesday. Spain allowed workers to return to factories and construction sites, despite a daily death toll that remains over 500. The Finnish government on Wednesday was set to reopen the borders of the southern region of Uusimaa, which includes Helsinki, the capital. The area has been sealed off since March 28.
In Moscow, new measures requiring anyone leaving their home to show a digital pass backfired, leaving subway stations clogged with throngs of rush-hour travelers waiting for police officers to check their papers.In Moscow, new measures requiring anyone leaving their home to show a digital pass backfired, leaving subway stations clogged with throngs of rush-hour travelers waiting for police officers to check their papers.
In Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel announced Wednesday that there would be a gradual loosening of restrictions, with some small shops allowed to open starting Monday. In Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel announced Wednesday that there would be a gradual loosening of restrictions, with some small shops allowed to open starting Monday. But she cautioned that the lockdown would remain largely in place for an additional 20 days, along with strict social distancing rules banning contact among more than two people who were not from the same household. Schools would stay closed for another three weeks.
But Ms. Merkel cautioned that the lockdown would remain largely in place for an additional 20 days, along with strict social distancing rules banning contact among more than two people who were not from the same household. Schools would stay closed for another three weeks, the chancellor said.
Ms. Merkel said on Wednesday that testing capacities would be further increased with an aim to eventually “trace every single infection chain.”
After the numbers of new cases are reassessed at the end of April, other restrictions may be lifted if the number stays low. Starting with the higher grades, schools would be allowed to reopen gradually from May 4, as would larger stores. Restaurants and bars will have to wait longer, and large events like soccer matches remain banned until Aug. 31. Religious services will remain banned for now as well.
In Denmark, the slow return began as the number of hospital admissions remained far below capacity across the country. By Tuesday, 380 patients were being treated in Danish hospitals, down from 535 at the peak of the outbreak in the country on April 1.In Denmark, the slow return began as the number of hospital admissions remained far below capacity across the country. By Tuesday, 380 patients were being treated in Danish hospitals, down from 535 at the peak of the outbreak in the country on April 1.
“It’s better than we dared hope for,” Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said at a news briefing on Tuesday.“It’s better than we dared hope for,” Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said at a news briefing on Tuesday.
There’s only so much togetherness anyone needs, and after a month of living together, your family most likely has had its share of rocky moments. We have some advice for problems such as navigating your stuck-together relationship and handling cooped-up children.There’s only so much togetherness anyone needs, and after a month of living together, your family most likely has had its share of rocky moments. We have some advice for problems such as navigating your stuck-together relationship and handling cooped-up children.
Reporting was contributed by Tim Arango, Karen Barrow, Alan Blinder, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Ben Casselman, Kenneth Chang, Emily Cochrane, Helene Cooper, Michael Cooper, Jill Cowan, Julie Hirschfeld Davis, Jesse Drucker, Catie Edmondson, John Eligon, Nicholas Fandos, Sheri Fink, Emily Flitter, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, James Gorman, Maggie Haberman, Anemona Hartocollis, Adeel Hassan, Annie Karni, Kate Kelly, Sapna Maheshwari, Aimee Ortiz, Alan Rappeport, William K. Rashbaum, Michael Rothfeld, Marc Santora, Eric Schmitt, Michael D. Shear, Knvul Sheikh, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley and Sabrina Tavernise. Reporting was contributed by Tim Arango, Karen Barrow, Alan Blinder, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Ben Casselman, Kenneth Chang, Emily Cochrane, Helene Cooper, Michael Cooper, Jill Cowan, Julie Hirschfeld Davis, Jesse Drucker, Catie Edmondson, John Eligon, Nicholas Fandos, Sheri Fink, Emily Flitter, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, James Gorman, Maggie Haberman, Anemona Hartocollis, Adeel Hassan, Annie Karni, Kate Kelly, Sapna Maheshwari, Aimee Ortiz, Roni Rabin, Alan Rappeport, William K. Rashbaum, Michael Rothfeld, Marc Santora, Eric Schmitt, Michael D. Shear, Knvul Sheikh, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley, Sabrina Tavernise and Neil Vigdor.