Senate OKs $2B in virus aid, targets vaccine distribution

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Republicans who control the Michigan Senate have moved to stop the state from distributing additional COVID-19 vaccine doses to more vulnerable communities, saying race and socioeconomic status should not be factors. Democrats say the provision, included in a $2 billion coronavirus relief funding plan approved Thursday, is “unconscionable.” The state health department is adjusting populated-based allocations of doses with a “social vulnerability index” multiplier — which includes indicators such as poverty, unemployment, minority status, lack of transportation and crowded housing. The $2 billion funding legislation was sent to the Republican-controlled House.