June 5, 2020
NC Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order 143 on June 4th addressing the racial disparities in the spread of COVID-19. The Executive Order notes among other things:
“WHEREAS, environmental justice refers to the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies”
“WHEREAS, further action is necessary to eliminate disparities and mitigate the impact of COVID-19, through delivery of COVID-19 related health services and economic stimulus opportunities for vulnerable populations”
The Governor is establishing the Andrea Harris Social, Economic, Environmental, and Health Equity Task Force. This task force will focus on:
The first report of the task force will be due on 12/1/20. The membership of the task force will include some of the Governor’s cabinet leaders including the DHHS Secretary. It will also include representatives from some specific groups and gives the Governor authority to appoint other members.
Andrea Harris co-founded the non-profit North Carolina Institute of Minority Economic Development to support minority and women owned businesses most recently was a Senior Fellow at Self-Help Credit Union. Harris died in May.
The second half of the Executive Order focuses on expectations for certain state government offices to address COVID-19 in ways that also focus on the economic and health disparities in North Carolina. This section includes segments related to the Departments of Public Safety and Health and Human Services. Much of that focus is on ensuring that communities of color, underserved communities and vulnerable populations are provided resources to minimize the impact of the pandemic.