Local governments stand to receive nearly $9 million in state grants during the pandemic, though the money won’t be available until the summer.
Surge Protectors
Lee discusses hospital capacity, personal protective equipment and ventilator distribution during a visit to Knoxville as more COVID-19 cases are detected.
Lee: Stay Home, Tennessee
Citing data showing voluntary measures aren’t working, the governor mandates restrictions on social and business activity to battle COVID-19.
An Order With Teeth
Kincannon backs Safer at Home with enforcement powers in the latest in a series of escalating and sometimes conflicting measures at all levels of government.
First Fatal Case Reported in Knox
Reversing course, Lee places the entire state under a Safer at Home order as COVID-19 cases soar and the death toll nearly doubles.
A Surge in Suicides
The novel coronavirus has exacted an emotional price but its role in a sudden increase in suicides locally is uncertain and complex.
Home, Safe Home
Knox County orders nonessential businesses to close and implores residents to stay home as much as possible as the coronavirus spreads.
Restaurant Restrictions
Lee orders all restaurants and bars in Tennessee to close or offer only carryout or delivery service, and limits public gatherings to a maximum of 10 people.
More Mitigating Measures
As Tennessee healthcare professionals prepare for a tsunami of COVID-19 patients, they ask Lee for greater public restrictions.
Last Call
Responding to the COVID-19 threat, the city is closing all bars and restaurants, while the county is closing bars and placing limits on restaurant capacity.