Gov. Pete Ricketts repeated Thursday that he’s not joining the crowd of governors issuing stay-at-home orders, despite urging from some fellow state executives. “Our plan is the right thing for us in Nebraska,” he said. “We need to do what’s right for Nebraska.”

Governors in about three dozen states have issued such an order, but Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has argued that data shows the move isn't needed in Iowa. She says her restrictions to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus are adequate.

Staff will be provided cotton twill masks made by the prison workforce. The reusable masks can be hand-washed.

Public health officials, faith and social service groups, and community leaders are trying to make sure the latest updates and recommendations about the coronavirus are reaching everyone, including the thousands of Nebraskans who speak a language other than English.