Editor's note-the following release was submitted by the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska

The Iowa Tribe of Kansas & Nebraska has declared a State of Emergency effective March 18, 2020, due to the unprecedented public safety situation created by COVID-19. This declaration will allow the Executive Committee to take any necessary action and have all necessary power as authorized under the Nation's constitution to provide for the welfare of the tribal government, tribal organizations, tribal assets, tribal lands, and tribal citizens to ensure their safety, health, and welfare for the duration of this emergency.

Emergency plans are being put in place within the community. This includes the closure of the following to limit the risk of COVID-19 to the local community, effective March 18, 2020 until March 31, 2020. The Executive Committee will reevaluate at that date. The closings are as follows:

• Casino White Cloud
• Boys and Girls Club
• Tribal Learning Center
• Wellness Center
• Senior Meal Service Sites-delivery only
• Gaming Commission/Inspectors
• George Ogden Building

The following are exempt and will stay open:

• Tribal Administration Building-by scheduled appointment only
• Grandview Oil
• Iowa Housing Authority
• Tribal Court
• United Tribes
• White Cloud Health Clinic
• Police Department
• Fire Department
• Native American Family Services
• Ioway Bee Farm
• Road Department
• Fish & Wildlife

All Iowa Tribe of Kansas & Nebraska community activities are suspended until further notice.

The COVID-19 Pandemic is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iowa Tribe Executive Committee is actively committed to protecting our tribal citizens and reservation visitors.