During his daily news briefing, Governor Mike Parson stated we are seeing signs that in the data that Missouri is beginning to slow the course of COVID-19. Improvements are being seen across the state.
Parson said if good Social Distancing continues, the economy will be reopened so Missourians can get back to work.

Governor Parson recapped the Show Me Strong Recovery Plan stating that this plan will have two initial phases.  He said these phases are intended to protect those most at risk of exposure to COVID-19 and return the state to a new normal.

Governor Parson said this approach combines a number of sources on Missouri specific data and will allow government officials to evaluate the situation locally.
“No matter how long it takes, I assure you we will recover from this and come back better than before. I look forward to seeing Missourians safe, healthy, and back to work,” Governor Parson said.
Also during today’s briefing, Director Dixon provided an update on several other economic development relief efforts. 
Early in the state’s COVID-19 response efforts, Governor Parson directed the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency and DED to seek assistance for Missouri businesses through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. 
As a result, 46,481 Missouri small businesses have been approved for the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, ranking Missouri 10th in the nation for the number of businesses that have been approved. In total, these businesses were approved for more than $7.5 billion, putting Missouri at 15th in the nation for total dollars approved. 
Yesterday, the SBA announced that it has subscribed its full $350 billion for the program, and there is no additional funding available.
Earlier today, Governor Parson and DED announced more than $3 million in state grants to help expand broadband internet service to 4,400 Missouri homes, businesses and farms.
Along with other state departments, DED has also created a web page that lists broadband discounts, waivers, and free resources available to Missourians during the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts are intended to help ensure citizens have continued access to necessary services and that businesses remain connected to customers in today’s economy.
Additionally, DED’s Missouri One Start Division is working to connect health care workers with health care facilities in need of more staff.