Forbes - It's Gonna Be May

Plus: Baseball could return for 4th of July

The federal government is planning to slowly begin reopening states that have been minimally impacted by the coronavirus starting on May 1st. The reopening will happen in phases, a new report says, and states might be mandated to restart social distancing measures if cases of COVID-19 surge. But despite the fact that President Trump has been vocal about wanting to reopen the economy as soon as possible, the majority of Americans would rather wait until there’s more evidence that the outbreak is under control. In other news, President Trump announced last night a decision to halt funding to the World Health Organization, a move that has been heavily criticized by other world leaders.

Business

Retail sales plunged today as businesses stay shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Americans are starting to get their $1,200 stimulus checks, and they are spending the money on basics like food and bills.

A new study finds that social distancing actually saves the U.S. economy $5 trillion dollars.

Worried about bare grocery shelves? The food supply chain is undergoing some adjustments, but they should be temporary.

Science & Health

Abbott Labs is launching a coronavirus antibody test to detect who has already been infected with the virus.

A COVID-19 testing site in New Jersey will now be testing saliva samples; much more comfortable than that long nose swab.

Digital health company Livongo got FDA approval for its remote diabetes monitor in hospitals, allowing staff to get more distance from patients.

Optum CEO Sir Andrew Witty is taking a leave of absence from the company to co-lead a WHO coronavirus vaccine initiative.

New York’s death toll rose sharply yesterday after the count included people who likely had the virus, but had not been tested.

Tracker of the day

Small business relief: New updates on our list of resources for small business owners grappling with coronavirus.