Governor McMaster Issues “Home or Work” Order Governor’s Order Also Places Occupancy Limitations on Essential Retail Businesses
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today issued Executive Order 2020-20, which includes a mandatory “Home or Work” order and mandates capacity limitations to retail businesses still operating.
“As we have said before – when the science, data, facts and experts determine it’s time to take action, it would be taken. It’s time,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “Taking this measure now will hopefully slow the future rise in infections and the virus’ toll on our state’s economy.”
The governor’s “Home or Work” order goes into effect tomorrow, Tuesday, April 7 at 5:00 PM. As indicated in the executive order, permitted travel includes commuting for work, visiting family, and obtaining essential goods or services. The order will not impact any individual’s ability to exercise outdoors or go for a walk as a family, but everyone should act responsibly and practice social distancing and proper personal hygiene.
No additional businesses or activities will be limited as a result of this order. On Friday, Governor McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-18, which extended the list of non-essential businesses to be closed at 5:00 PM today.
The governor has also ordered that all retail business still operating limit customer activity by only allowing five customers per 1000 square feet or 20% of their posted capacity in a store, whichever is less.
“For purposes of this Order, Essential Activities shall mean and include as follows:
1. Caring for or visiting a family member in another Residence or transporting or travelling with a family member, provided that such activity is conducted with appropriate consideration of, and adherence to, guidance issued by state and federal public health and safety officials, to include the CDC, with regard to “social distancing.”
2. Obtaining necessary supplies and services for family or household
members, such as food and supplies for household consumption and use, medical
supplies or medication, supplies and equipment needed to work from home, and
products needed to maintain safety, sanitation, and essential maintenance of the
home or residence. Preference should be given to online ordering, home delivery,
and curbside pick-up and delivery options and services wherever possible as opposed to in-store shopping.
3. Engaging in activities essential for the health and safety of family or household members, such as seeking medical, behavioral health, or emergency services.
4. Caring for pets, provided that such activity is conducted with appropriate consideration of, and adherence to, guidance issued by state and federal public health and safety officials, to include the CDC, with regard to “social
distancing.”
5. Engaging in outdoor exercise or recreational activities, provided that a minimum distance of six (6) feet is maintained during such activities between all persons who are not occupants of the same Residence.
6. Attending religious services conducted in churches, synagogues, or other houses of worship.
7. Travelling as required by law, to include attending any court proceedings and transporting children as required by court order or custody agreement.
Any individual leaving his or her Residence as authorized herein shall take reasonable steps to maintain six (6) feet of separation from any other person.”