Here’s a look at some local news brought to you by Silver City Radio.

At the time of compiling this report, COVID-19 cases have increased in New Mexico to 2379 individuals. Sadly, there is a total of 78 deaths in New Mexico from COVID-19. For our area, we have 14 positive cases of COVID-19 in Grant County, 1 in Catron County, and 3 in Luna County. In addition, statewide there are 123 individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 and 573 cases designated as having recovered by the New Mexico Department of Health.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has extended the statewide Emergency Public Health Order through May 15th. In addition, the Governor identified a three-phase reopening strategy for the economy as a framework complete with a timeline and performance triggers. The Preparation Phase will involve preparation in developing safety practices while individuals will be instructed to stay home; Phase One will allow some non-essential businesses to reopen with COVID Safe Practices (CSPs) with vulnerable individuals instructed to stay home; and Phase Two and Beyond consists of additional businesses to reopen with compliance to CSPs along with large gatherings and events being restricted for the foreseeable future. In addition, the Governor has appointed an Economic Recovery Council with representatives from healthcare, finance, agriculture, tourism, energy and others.

New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions has announced that the application for unemployment insurance benefits for self-employed, independent contractors, and gig economy workers will become available this Sunday, April 26th, through the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Workers who became unemployed, had hours reduced, or had an inability to work as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic may qualify for this unemployment assistance.

People who may qualify for PUA include individuals not eligible for regular unemployment benefits include:

  • the self-employed
  • independent contractors
  • church employees
  • individuals who were previously found monetarily ineligible
  • nonprofit and governmental workers
  • workers who have exhausted regular unemployment compensation benefits

Visit https://www.dws.state.nm.us/en-us/ for more information regarding the New Mexico PUA Program.

Silver City Radio reminds everyone to support local businesses. Visit silvercity radio.com for a list of open businesses in Grant, Luna, and Hidalgo counties.