Updates to the Executive Order That Apply to Businesses and Consumers
Business owners must comply with these restrictions beginning May 1. Consumers should expect businesses to follow these regulations and to comply with them as well. In particular, the Executive Order requires all of us to wear face coverings in all indoor public spaces. like stores.
NEW Categories of Businesses Considered Essential
The following businesses will be considered essential and may re-open beginning May 1:
- Animal Grooming Services
- Greenhouses, Garden Centers and Nurseries
These businesses are considered essential businesses under the previous Stay at Home Order. All essential businesses must follow the social distancing requirements outlined below.
NEW Permissible Activities for Non-Essential Businesses
Beginning May 1, retail stores that are not designated as essential may re-open to fulfill online or telephone orders. These orders must be completed through pick-up outside of the store or delivery. All non-essential businesses engaged in minimum basic activities such as these must follow the social distancing requirements outlined below.
Requirements for all Businesses to Protect Employees and Consumers
Effective May 1, all businesses are required to take the following steps to the greatest extent possible:
- Provide employees with face coverings
- Require that employees wear face coverings if they are unable to maintain a six-foot distance at all times
- Where work circumstances require it, provide additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Evaluate whether employees are able to work from home
This applies to all essential businesses and non-essential businesses that are engaged in minimum basic operations. These are in addition to existing requirements which include:
- designating six-foot distance in the store for customers
- having hand sanitizer and sanitizing products available
- designating separate operating hours for vulnerable populations
- posting online whether a business is open and how best to reach the facility.