Maine governor proclaims civil emergency due to virus
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine’s governor has declared a state of civil emergency in response to the spread of the new coronavirus and called on residents of the state to avoid large gatherings. State officials say Democratic Gov. Janet Mills’s proclamation was needed to authorize emergency powers to expand the state’s response to the virus. The state now has seven confirmed cases after sitting at zero just days ago. Mills also strongly recommended ending all classroom instruction in public schools as soon as possible.