RI's Emergency Order Could Be Lifted at 70% COVID Immunity: McKee

PROVIDENCE, RI — As Rhode Islanders begin to see the light at the end of the coronavirus pandemic tunnel, some are starting to wonder: when will the state's emergency declaration end?

When questioned about the ongoing state of emergency Thursday, Gov. Dan McKee said there is no set timeline to fully lift it and the other executive orders requiring mask-wearing, safety restrictions in businesses and more. As more residents are vaccinated, he said, his team and the Rhode Island Department of Health will continue to monitor the situation.

McKee said he expects to be able to lift the order when more than 70 percent of Rhode Islanders are fully vaccinated, which could come this summer.

The state has been under a state of emergency since March 9, 2020, which came just a few weeks before the state was placed under a stay-at-home order. At the time, then-Gov. Gina Raimondo said she "felt it was prudent" to do so because it allowed her greater flexibility and options to respond to the quickly evolving situation.

"We need to take action," Raimondo said. "I want every tool at my disposal."

Although the virus was not widespread in the state at the time the order was enacted, the state of emergency allowed the governor access to the Rhode Island National Guard, as well as the ability to request federal funding. Both became essential parts of the state's coronavirus response as the virus spread further throughout the state.

Related: RI Expects To Open Vaccine Eligibility To All Adults April 19