Governor addresses riots and coronavirus concerns

Monday afternoon, Governor Pete Ricketts discussed the weekend protests and riots in Lincoln and Omaha, as well as COVID-19 concerns.

Gov. Ricketts started the press conference thanking the peaceful protesters and individuals who helped clean up after the riots over the weekend. The governor also thanked the local mayors, police officers, and Nebraska State Patrol members for trying to maintain peace and safety during this time.

The governor condemned the use of violence, loss of life, and property destruction, which he said took away from the message of the protests.

Gov. Ricketts supported Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine's decision not to push charges against the business owner who fired fatal shots Saturday night in the Old Market that killed 22-year-old James Scurlock.

"If Don Kleine doesn't believe he can bring charges at this time, then I believe him,” Gov. Ricketts said. “I ask people to watch the videos that are out there and keep an open mind when looking at this. We have to heal and we have to move on together."

Officials also noted several new grants for childcare providers who were affected by COVID-19. Children and Family Services is working to ensure childcare is available during the pandemic. The department plans to use money from the CARES Act to the Child Care Relief Fund, the Child Care Provider Stabilization Fund and an incentive to reopen child care centers and child care homes.