While the Governor’s shelter in place order expired last night at 11:59 PM, that does not mean the pandemic is no longer a concern nor that health and safety precautions may be lessened. This is the first phase in our return to recovery–we are still a long way from a return to normalcy. To that end:
1. The elderly and medically fragile are still required to shelter in place through June 12.
2. While certain businesses are allowed to resume limited operations (note, LIMITED), they may ONLY open if they meet specific, mandatory social distancing and sanitation rules to keep customers and employees safe, including the use of masks and appropriate distancing. ALL businesses, even those deemed "essential" in previous orders, must follow these requirements. Bars, night clubs, amusement parks, live performances venues and public pools remain closed at this time.
3. All Georgians are to continue to maintain social distancing, limit their travel and use best practices. Gatherings of more than 10 people will not be allowed unless it is possible to maintain 6 feet of distance.
Yes, the order has been lifted, but you still need to be careful. Limit your exposure to others. If it is possible to work from home, work from home. If you have to go out, take precautions. If you are reopening your business, do so under the government-mandated restrictions. We are a community, and to get through this we must work together. It is our responsibility–all of us–to ensure safety practices are in place, so that we may move forward into the next phase of recovery.
The Governor’s Office has provided guidance on what we each should be doing in this new phase, whether a business, citizen, employee, etc. Please take the time to peruse those documents relevant to you. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the office of the Governor at
gov.georgia.gov,
covidcomments@georgia.org, or 404-656-1776.
Governor’s Guidance (PDF)