Gov. DeSantis announces 30-day stay-at-home order

A new statewide stay-at-home order in Florida will be in place for the next 30 days starting at midnight Thursday, April 2, to slow the spread of COVID-19, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Wednesday.

The executive order requires all persons in Florida to limit their movements and personal interactions outside of their home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.

According to the executive order, “essential activities” means and encompasses the following:

• Attending religious services conducted in churches, synagogues and houses of worship
• Participating in recreational activities (consistent with social distancing guidelines) such as walking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, running, or swimming; and
• Taking care of pets
• Caring for or otherwise assisting a loved one or friend