LINCOLN - There are no plans to shut down meatpacking plants in Nebraska due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Governor Pete Ricketts addressed questions regarding the JBS plant in Grand Island on Monday saying it will remain open because meatpacking is an essential industry.

Ricketts added he is communicating directly with JBS leadership and the community of Grand Island on a five-step plan to ensure the safety of workers and local residents.

The comments come after 10 workers at the Grand Island plant tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, and after more than 40 doctors signed a letter calling on Ricketts to issue a statewide stay-at-home order over the weekend.