Rep. Driscoll Statement on Reopening Massachusetts

MILTON, MAY 19, 2020 - This week Governor Baker unveiled plans aimed at a phased in reopening of Massachusetts. The plans officially mark the executive branch’s transition from a COVID-19 response-only mindset to a more recovery-focused approach.

While the pivot point on the calendar might be clear, the clarity of the reopening plans could be better. Many people are confused about the way forward.

We all must do our part and remain vigilant as restrictions are relaxed and rewritten. History and infectious disease specialists tell us that a second wave of spread is not only possible, but likely. We each must do our part in preventing a future spike in cases of COVID-19.

In the same ways that modeling behavior was key during the early days of the unfolding crisis in March, it is just as important now and in the months ahead. I can tell you that in my own house, my family and I are not changing our approach just yet. We plan to keep our personal safety protocols and practices in place during the weeks ahead.

Please continue to limit your physical interactions with others too. Suppression of the coronavirus via physical distancing from those outside of our immediate household and vigilant personal hygiene practices are our best and only tools available right now.

I am hopeful that the medical therapies and vaccines under development will lead to good things, but for now, the onus is on each of us to keep the curve flat and to keep each other safe by staying home as much as possible.

I know that is a lot to ask. The stakes are worth it.

Ultimately, the Legislature will play a key role in the Commonwealth’s long-term recovery from this public health crisis and the economic fallout. The Governor and his team will continue chart the course day-to-day while we remain under a state of emergency. As your State Representative and as a member of the House COVID-19 Working Group convened by Speaker DeLeo, I will be paying close attention to legislation and policy focused on keeping people safe, dealing with jobs and the economy, and the future of our healthcare system. We’ll be looking at issues not only related to recovery from the ongoing COVID-19 situation, but how to ensure the strongest economy and healthcare system on a going forward basis when coronavirus is behind us. This work will not be easy and there are a lot of tough days and tough decisions ahead. Thank you for your support as we keep moving forward.

If my office can be of any assistance during these challenging times, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to help.

Be Well,