CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The novel coronavirus struck the U.S. economy, triggering an unexpected downturn bigger than the last. What was the longest economic expansion in history has come to a halt.
Economists recognize a need for balance between business and health care. However, they say there is no clear answer.
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Reopening the economy too soon would spell disaster for citizens’ health; not reopening it soon enough would mean destroying businesses.
[ ‘We are not there yet’: North Carolina’s stay-at-home order extended ]
States are approaching the virus in different ways. Gov. Roy Cooper has extended North Carolina’s stay-at-home order through May 8. New York, where Covid-19 hit hard, is looking at a regional reopening. Georgia is pushing a more aggressive plan.
All have the same questions: Is now the right time? How long should businesses suffer? Will reopening the economy lead to another infection spike?
Read the full story here for takes from three prominent economists.
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