On Wednesday, April 1st, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued a 30-day stay-at-home executive order. The mandate will go into effect at 12:01 a.m., on April 3rd and will end on Thursday, April 30th, at midnight.
This decision transpired following President Trump’s decision, on March 31st, to extend the National State of Emergency for another 30 days – to slow the spread of COVID-19. After a conversation with the President, DeSantis committed to the decision and signed an order. Florida will be on shut down for the next 30 days as well. Only essential business and essential activities will be permitted.
The Current State of Florida and the Coronavirus
To date, Florida’s virus numbers have rapidly increased to over 7,700 confirmed cases. In Hillsborough County there are over 300 cases and in Polk County there are nearly 100. Yes, the numbers seem low compared to hot spots like Miami/Dade, but we have not hit the predicted peak that is expected in three weeks.
So, this is an effort to slow the spread of the virus. Hopefully, it will work.
Florida residents have been practicing social distancing for almost three weeks. Some have been working remotely from home, many have continued to go in to work but keep the 6 feet distance rule, and others have unfortunately lost their jobs. We have been encouraged to stay home and only go out when necessary. Most have complied.
This order will limit our movement outside of our own homes – it is a bit more detailed than the social distancing we have been conducting and repercussions are possible.
Essential Activities include:
- Going to the grocery store
- Getting gas
- Doctors/Chiropractors/Physical Therapy appointments
- Pharmacy pickup/drop-off
- Veterinary visits
- Caring for loved one or friend
- Attending religious services conducted in churches, synagogues and house of worship
- Recreational activities (using social distancing) such as walking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, running, or swimming.
Essential Businesses Include:
- Healthcare providers
- Food providers and grocers
- Food cultivation
- Social services
- Media
- Automobile
- Finance
- Hardware stores
- Contractors and other tradesmen
- Mailing and shipping
- Colleges
- Laundry
- Food service
- Office supply
- Delivery
- Transportation
- Senior care
- Professional services
- Outdoor care
- Business operating
- Pet supply stores
- Logistics providers
- Telecommunications providers
- Propane and natural gas
- Office space and administrative support
- Construction
- Factories
- Veterinarians
- Mortuaries
On a positive note – we might go back to work in 30 days and all the road construction will be completed. With traffic being nearly non-existent, the Governor has given Secretary of Transport the green light to accelerate $2.1 billion road and infrastructure improvements plan. So, the Howard Franklin Bridge might finally be done. Stay positive friends – we will get through this together. God Bless!
