RIDOH to be posted at all future peaceful protests in Rhode Island to limit spread of COVID-19

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – Rhode Island Department of Health staff will be posted to all future peaceful protests seeking justice for the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis to help reduce the chances that the coronavirus spreads at them.

Gov. Gina Raimondo said Wednesday while she supports the constitutional rights of people to protest peacefully, she is concerned about large gatherings leading to an outbreak of the disease.

She said the health department workers will distribute masks and provide other resources.

With the state facing an estimated $800 million budget deficit because of the pandemic, Raimondo is asking some state workers to take part in a money-saving “work sharing” program to avoid layoffs.