DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa legislators completed their work early Tuesday to suspend the legislative session for 30 days, passing a resolution that halts meeting until April 15 due to concerns over the spreading coronavirus.

Among hastily passed measures was one waiving the requirement for Iowa schools to reschedule days canceled following Gov. Kim Reynolds’ recommendation to recess for four weeks.

Lawmakers also approved spending measures to continue the current budget year past the July 1 beginning of the next fiscal year if needed since the Legislature had not yet approved next year’s budget.

The measure includes an additional $99 million to school districts, $525,000 for additional COVID-19 testing at a state laboratory and $91.8 million for Medicaid and related programs.

For most people, the COVID-19 causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness. Most people recover from the virus.

Iowa had 23 positive cases as of Tuesday morning.

Lawmakers also gave the governor increased authority to transfer money between budget line items and tap emergency funds if needed. A small group of legislative leaders may authorize an additional $196 million to fight the virus spread if needed without full legislative approval.

Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver said the legislative break was needed so state government can focus on managing the COVID-19 outbreak.

House Speaker Pat Grassley said the legislation ensures that Reynolds “can effectively manage a rapidly changing situation.”

“The last thing we want to do is put the public, press, staff or legislators at risk,” Grassley said.

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The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.