What Governor Kemp's Executive Order Means for You

The Georgia Department of Public Health has determined that implementing restrictions is necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19 [1]. Starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020, all residents and visitors to the State of Georgia will be required to shelter-in-place while practicing social distancing and sanitation in accordance with the guidelines published by the CDC here.

Shelter-in-place means staying in a place of residence and limiting social interaction as much as possible; unless engaging in an essential service (such as going to the grocery store, exercising, or seeking medical care), performing necessary travel, performing minimum basic operations of businesses, or taking part in the workforce for critical infrastructure. In an emergency, however, you are encouraged to leave your home or residence and shelter in place at an alternate location. Anyone experiencing homelessness is urged to seek and obtain shelter and to contact governmental or other entities for assistance [2].

All businesses, establishments, corporations, non-profit corporations, or organizations not considered critical infrastructure must engage in minimum basic operations. Minimum basic operations include activities that maintain the value of a business, provide services, manage inventory, ensure security, process payroll, or similar operations. Businesses, establishments, corporations, non-profit corporations, organizations, or county or municipal governments can not allow more than ten people at a single location. The six-foot distancing rules apply to all places engaging in minimum basic operations [3].

The following entities must close to the public and stop all in-person operations: bars, nightclubs, gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, theaters, performance venues, amusement parks, dine-in restaurant service, estheticians, hair stylists, body artists, beauty shops, cosmetology schools, hair design schools, barbering schools, esthetics schools, nail care schools and licensed massage therapists. Even businesses that continue minimum basic operations should follow CDC guidelines. Notably, they should send sick employees home, inform employees in the event that a COVID-19 case relates to the business, and encourage older adults and people with underlying chronic medical conditions to stay at home [4]. Businesses and employers can find out more about the CDC’s recommendations here.

The order became effective at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020, and will last until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2020.

https://gov.georgia.gov/executive-action/executive-orders/2020-executive-orders

written by: Willie Daniely III