On April 1, 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-91, putting in effect a stay-at-home order to all of Florida that begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, April 3. The full executive order can be found here.
Executive Order 20-91 requires both senior citizens and those with underlying medical conditions to stay at home and to take all measures to limit exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19). Additionally, it requires all persons in Florida to limit their movements and interactions with others, unless they are “necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.”
What is an essential service? It includes any essential service as listed by the US Department of Homeland Security; those listed in Florida Governor Executive Order 20-89; and any other essential service as approved by the state coordinating officer, who will maintain a list on the Florida Division of Emergency Management website.
What is an essential activity? According to the governor’s order, essential activities include attending religious services, participating in recreational activities, taking care of pets or otherwise caring or assisting for others. However, the order specifically forbids social gatherings in public spaces.
The essential activities listed are broad, sometimes ambiguous, and may change over the 30-day period. While it is best to stay safe and maintain social distance during these difficult times, we know that running your business is still essential to you. If you have questions about your status as an essential service or activity, or any other COVID-19 related questions, the attorneys at Widerman Malek are here to assist you. Please contact us.
