Governor Polis & Mayor Hancock's COVID Update Emphasizes Avoiding Shutdowns

Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock provided an update on the state's coronavirus efforts in joint a news conference on Tuesday, November 17.

Both Mayor Polis and Mayor Hancock stressed that by taking individual action now, Colorado can avoid another shutdown.

Governor Polis began the conference with grim new statistics for the state.

There were 4,331 new cases today (November 17) and 1,378 Coloradans currently hospitalized.

In order to stop the exponential growth of cases, Polis announced new public health measures with additional steps and a new CDPHE dial.

Around 10 to 15 counties will be shifting into a new severe risk phase in the next few days.

This new phase closes indoor dining and asks residents to interact only with people in their households, and encourages at risk populations to stay at home.

While middle schools, high schools and higher education are to continue with remote and hybrid learning, Polis urged counties to return preschool through 5th grade classes to in-person learning.

The governor said a return to in-person learning for these age groups would ensure that "our children's future is not another causality of this pandemic."

Polis emphasized that the new phase is only meant to show counties that additional steps can be taken to flatten the curve without having to shutdown businesses and schools.

Joined by Colorado Senate members, Polis discussed the upcoming special session with state legislature to address providing immediate financial relief for Coloradans.

"We just can't wait any longer for Congress to act," said Speaker Alec Garnett.

Residents can expect a small business relief package for restaurants and bars that includes direct aid and tax relief, as well as housing and rental assistance, support for child care providers, and an expansion of broadband access for students and educators learning remotely.

Legislative leaders will also be sending another letter to the federal government urging Congress to act on another stimulus package.

"What we do these next few weeks will determine how many more Coloradans will lose their lives," said Polis.

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