Michigan is part of an interstate compact to get rapid-response COVID-19 antigen tests in the hands of states that are trying to safely reopen their economies while still struggling with infections.
An antigen test reveals if a person is currently infected with the virus. The tests are in short supply and the federal government does not currently have a coordinated system of distributing tests. Six states, led by both Democratic and Republican governors, have entered into an agreement with the Rockefeller Foundation to ramp up test production and distribution. The Foundation’s goal is to facilitate 30 million tests per week, nationwide.
The interstate compact would get a half million tests to Michigan to assist with expanding long-term testing in places like schools, workplaces, and nursing homes.
In announcing the compact, Governor Gretchen Whitmer pointed to widespread testing as “one of the most crucial tools we have to stop the spread of this virus and save lives”. She implored the federal government to follow the lead of the states.
Additional states, as well as local governments may join into the compact into the near future.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
