LINCOLN, Neb. (KMTV) — On Thursday afternoon, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts and other officials provided updates on unemployment claims, loosening restrictions on religious services and wedding season.
When it comes to unemployment, Nebraska’s Commissioner of Labor John Albin says pre-pandemic staff and additional staff added after claims skyrocketed are continuing to work longer hours in an attempt to get caught up. In the past two months, he says the Department of Labor has received, roughly, the same number of claims it has over the past three years combined. Albin says the department is looking at other state unemployment claim models to improve Nebraska’s process.
Ricketts, and faith leaders on-hand, reminded people religious services will be exempt from the 10 person rule starting on Monday, May 4. People who attend services will be expected to sit with their own households, sit six feet away from other groups and churches will not pass collection plates, share items such as hymnals or administer communion.
Wedding season is upon us and Ricketts provided direction to those wondering how coronavirus-related restrictions will impact their nuptials. Ricketts said wedding venues will have to abide by the 10 person rule through May so wedding receptions will not be allowed. He says they are working on guidance for June.
You can watch the briefing below: