Gov. Ivey says state needs to strike ‘balance’ between economy and public health

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Gov. Kay Ivey and State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris spoke to media by phone Tuesday afternoon about the continuing coronavirus pandemic.

Ivey said her priority is keeping the Alabama economy going while taking extraordinary measures in keeping everyone healthy and safe.

“I know that businesses in your community are really feeling the pinch, and maybe feel hopeless when it’s hard to see an end in sight, but I want to echo the president who today said, ‘We have to get back to work,’” she said. “We must do everything we can to keep businesses open, and if they’re closed, get them back up as soon as possible.”

Ivey reiterated that small businesses across Alabama negatively impacted by the coronavirus pandemic are eligible for assistance under the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. To see if your business qualifies, visit this link.

When asked if the state should be focused more on stopping the spread of the disease or the economy, Ivey said the state should be focused on both.

“The safety and well-being of Alabamians is paramount,” she said. “However, I agree with President Trump who thinks that a healthy and vital economy is just as essential to our quality of life. Manufacturers and businesses that are producing the medicines, the protective health equipment, and the food we need. It’s a balance, and we’re trying to strike the appropriate balance as we move forward.”

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