Oct 21, 2020

🎥Gov. on virus outbreak in NW Kan. and mask mandate talks

Posted Oct 21, 2020 8:00 PM

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly held a press conference Wednesday to discuss the state response efforts to the outbreak in Norton County and give an update on COVID-19 in Kansas. She said she will be meeting with House and Senate leaders to find a way to get masks worn across the state. "We know we have a problem and we need to find a solution."

The Governor also announced that Kansans experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in rental assistance. 

Approximately $35 million of CARES Act funding is now available through the Kansas Eviction Prevention Program, which is designed to reduce evictions across the state. The program was recommended by the SPARK taskforce and approved by the State Finance Council.

“Keeping Kansans in their homes and businesses has been a top priority for my administration since the pandemic began,” Governor Kelly said. â€śThrough this program, we will provide support to tenants and landlords experiencing pandemic-related financial stress, ensure families and businesses stay put, and keep Kansans safe and healthy.”

Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) will administer the program. Landlords and tenants apply through a joint online process. Approved applicants are eligible for a maximum of nine months of assistance, not to exceed $5,000 per household. 

“As more Kansans are doing online learning and teleworking, being able to stay in your home has never been more important,” said Ryan Vincent, KHRC Executive Director. “I want to thank Governor Kelly, the SPARK taskforce, and legislators for providing this much-needed support to Kansas families.”

Program funds are limited, and applications will be processed in the order received until all funds are expended. Kansans are strongly encouraged to get their applications in as soon as possible. To apply, Kansans should visit kshousingcorp.org.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 1488 to a total of 74,456, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon. 

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 952, an increase of 80.

Wednesday Oct. 21, 2020 KDHE image
Wednesday Oct. 21, 2020 KDHE image