Hogan Orders Marylanders: ‘Stay Home’

As COVID-19 cases skyrocket in the National Capitol Region, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan issued a stay-at-home order set to take effect at 8 p.m. today.

According to the order, no Maryland residents should leave their homes unless necessary, including to perform an essential job or obtaining food or medicine.

“This is a deadly public health crisis—we are no longer asking or suggesting that Marylanders stay home, we are directing them to do so,” said Hogan.

According to the order, other acceptable reasons to leave home include engaging in outdoor activities such as “walking, hiking, running, or biking,” caring for family members and maintaining property and animals. Groups larger than 10 people are forbidden, and proper social distancing, including maintaining a six-foot distance with others outside the home, is required.

Although the order does not affect what businesses are deemed essential and may remain open, essential businesses must take steps to scale down operations to reduce risk, Hogan said. In addition, Marylanders should not travel outside the state unless absolutely necessary, and those who have done so should self-quarantine for 14 days. Willfully violating the order is a misdemeanor with penalties of up to a one year if imprisonment and a $5,000 fine.

Restaurants may continue to operate on a curbside or carryout basis, but campgrounds must close, with an exception for residents of recreational vehicles who have no other home.

The UMD Division of Student Affairs has compiled resources to help Terps stay connected during this period of social distancing. Visit keepconnected.umd.edu.