“Staying at home now is not an option, it’s a requirement.”

That was the words of Governor Bill Lee this afternoon after he signed Executive Order 23 requiring Tennesseans to stay at home unless conducting essential activities.

Basically the stay-at-home order means Tennesseans must remain in their place of residence. They can only leave for food, supplies, medical care, work at essential businesses or go just outside of their residence to get fresh air or exercise.

“Essential” businesses like grocery stores, pharmacies, manufacturing places, banks, and laundromats will remain open. Residents are not supposed to leave home for work unless they work for an “essential” business, which includes health care.

The reason the order was given by Governor Lee today was data by TDOT shows an increased movement of Tennesseans to near pre-COVID 19.

“Some did not take the safer at home order seriously. We have to do all we can to cut down the rise of coronavirus cases in Tennessee,” said Governor Lee.

“The month of April stands to be an extremely tough time for our state as we face the potential for a surge in COVID-19 cases,” Governor Lee said. “Every Tennessean must take this seriously, remain at home and ensure we save lives.”

The order will be enforced by way of instructing law enforcement throughout Tennessee to issue verbal warnings and/or citations to violators. If a non-essential business does not close during this order, they can be reported to local law enforcement who will make sure the order is enforced.

The order is in effect now (April 2, 2020) until April 14, 2020 at 11:59 p.m.

ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES INCLUDE:

Health Care and Public Health Operations

Human Services Operations

Essential Infrastructure Operations

Essential Government Functions

Food and Medicine Stores

Food and Beverage Production and Agriculture

Organizations that Provide Charitable and Social Services

Media.

Gas Stations and Businesses Needed for Transportation

Banks

Hardware and Supply Stores

Critical Trades

Mail, Post, Shipping, Logistics, Delivery, and Pick-up Services.

Educational Institutions

Laundry Services

Restaurants for Off-Premises Consumption

Supplies to Work from Home

Supplies for Essential Businesses and Operations

Transportation services

Home-based Care

Residential Facilities and Shelters

Manufacturing, Distribution and Supply Chain for Critical Products and Industries

Hotels and Motels

Funeral Services