March 22, 2020 @ 4:05 p.m.
| Stay at Home Order Effective 12:01 am Tuesday March 24 Effective 12:01am Tuesday, March 24, Jackson County, Missouri, is requiring people to stay-at-home except for essential needs. The intent of this order is to ensure the maximum number of people self-isolate in their places of residence to the maximum extent feasible. Unless it is unavoidable or urgent, vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions must stay at home. All community members should stay at home except to perform essential duties for business continuity or government functions, to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary healthcare, or perform activities related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this time. It is OK to go outside for walks if you are not in a group of more than 10 and practice proper social distancing. This order is in effect until at least April 24. – It may be extended depending on recommendations from public health officials.Is this mandatory or is it just guidance? It is mandatory. You are required to comply, and it is a misdemeanor crime not to follow the order (although the intent is not for anyone to get into trouble). It is critical for everyone to follow the order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors, and the whole community. All persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within the exemptions that are specified in the order.Why are we doing this? This is a critical intervention to reduce harm from the spread of the coronavirus in our community. This is a mandatory order enforceable by a fine or jail. The health officers of four regional jurisdictions are responding to quickly mounting cases and serious illnesses across the region. Now is the time to do everything we can to prevent the situation from getting much worse in a matter of days or weeks. Every hour counts. We need and appreciate the cooperation of everyone who lives and works in Jackson County to act immediately. While this news may feel alarming, it is a necessary step to prevent a worsening situation. The patterns of the virus around the world, and in our own state, tell us that moving right now to maximize social distancing and restrict people gathering is the best way to fight the virus and save lives. If everyone works together, we should be able to adjust to the new rules over the next few weeks. We know that there will be a lot of questions and concerns at the beginning of this new regimen. This is a major change being taken to protect public health. Please be patient and kind to one another. Together, we will get through this, and our community’s health will be protected. We have highlighted a few points below. To see a full list of Frequently Asked Questions visit the Jackson County, Missouri FAQ page Can I go outside? You can go outside, to take walks, run, bike, or hike. Comply with social distancing of at least 6 feet. These essential services will remain open: City/County government services: police stations, fire stations, hospitals/clinics and healthcare operations, jails, courts, garbage/sanitation, utilities (water, power and gas) Gas stations Pharmacies Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants Hardware stores/plumbers/electricians and those who provide services necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences Banks Community benefit organizations on a case-by-case basis Laundromats/laundry services Cemeteries Find a detailed list of essential business operations here. What is closed?Dine-in restaurants – except for delivery, carryout or drive through servicesBars, Taverns and nightclubsEntertainment venuesGyms and fitness studiosSalons, Spas and BarbershopsTattoo parlors and similar facilities I own a business, what am I supposed to do? If your business does not fall within the essential services listed above, besides performing basic minimum functions, you need to close. Basic Minimum functions include:The minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business’s inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for related functions.The minimum necessary activities to facilitate employees of the business being able to continue to work remotely from their residences. Please ensure that employees comply with Social Distancing Requirements as much as possible For clarity, businesses may also continue operations consisting exclusively of employees or contractors performing activities at their own residences (i.e., working from home). Local Travel and Transit Personal travel, public transit, and ride share services are allowed, for the purpose of performing essential activities as well as traveling to and from work to operate essential business. If using public transit or ride share follow Social Distancing of at least 6 feet. Schools School districts are closed until at least April 24th. Individual school districts may extend beyond April 24 (see your district for exact dates). Schools may remain open to provide meal pick-up or delivery for students. Staff of educational institutions-including public and private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities are exempt for purposes of facilitating remote or virtual learning or performing essential functions Childcare and Preschool Childcare and preschool must be carried out in stable groups of 10 children or fewer. Staff and children should not move from group to group throughout the day. If there is more than one group in a facility, then each group must be in a separate room (no mixing of groups). The Jackson County Health Department is continuing to update our detailed Guidance and FAQ page on our website. |
