Simplot defers immediate testing to those with the highest need

The following statement was released by Josh Jordan, Sr. Manager Communications and Public Relations at J.R. Simplot Company:

We apologize for any misunderstanding about our participation in today’s large testing opportunity in Grand Forks. Simplot fully supports greater access to testing in the Grand Forks community and throughout the state and country. We also know that the availability of testing may be limited and would prefer this immediate testing be made available to the broader community, especially for those who are in high risk categories, who are experiencing symptoms, or who live with others who are in high risk categories or have tested positive.

We understand the need for testing and appreciate the effort of today’s event, and of state and local leaders to make testing more available. We were only made aware of the event yesterday, and were not able to communicate to employees as we were in the process of closing our facility for cleaning and maintenance. We notified event organizers of this Wednesday evening.

All Simplot employees have access to free testing through our health insurance plan.

We have been aggressive in implementing procedures designed to keep anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 out of our facilities. We also have implemented social distancing, staggering breaks and rest periods, and checking temperatures of everyone who enters the facility. Any employee can be tested at any time, and we believe our practices are helping keep our employees safe which to this point have resulted in no employees at our Food Group processing facilities testing positive.