By JULIE CUNNINGHAM and CHRIS COLLINS
(Boston, MA) – Massacbusetts Governor Charlie Baker has extended the state wide lock down and stay at home order until May 18. Baker noted that although the state wide COVID-19 data has plateaued, cases have not declined in a steady enough fashion that would justify reopening the state. Baker also announced establishment of a COVID-19 advisory board which will produce a plan for reopening the state’s economy.
”When the data suggests that COVID-19 is diminishing we will want to have that plan in place,” said Baker.
Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton) says she supports the move, even though the board contains Franklin County representation, and only two members from the western region.
“I believe the addition of Easthampton Mayor Nicole Lachapelle and Baystate Medical Systems CEO Mark Kerouac will ensure that our region’s best interests are well represented,” Comerford said. “They are both forces of nature in their own right.”
Comerford said the western regional will also benefit from the presence of Berkshire-Franklin Senator Adam Hinds (D-Pittsfield), who will serve as an adviser to the board, but will not be a voting member.
Baker said the ban on gatherings of 10 or more people has also been extended until May 18.