Maryland Business Closures and the Reason Why
Maryland’s Governor recently issued his Order “closing” All Non-Essential Businesses.
Estimates place potential deaths from COVID-19 in the US at over 20,000,000 unless such action is taken by state and local governments across the country. Such closures are designed to prevent the collapse of our health care system so that those in need, whether suffering from COVID-19, heart attacks, or other sickness can obtain access to treatment. Do you need to shut down? Here is some information for you.
Is Your Business Exempt from Closure?
At the outset, if your business is not included in the list of exemptions outlined by the Attorney General’s Office, you must close your business. Please note that this list is subject to change and it is possible, even likely, that some businesses may be added and some may be removed from the exemption list. If your business is affected, you should check daily to see if you are able to reopen. You may also want to contact your applicable trade association who might be able to provide additional guidance and information.
Exemptions to mandatory closure are outlined by Maryland’s Office of Legal Counsel which has interpreted Gov. Hogan’s Order. Their interpretation is available by clicking here. Here is a summary of exempt businesses who are currently exempt from closure:
- Health care
- Food production
- Agriculture which includes liquor stores
- Energy
- Public works
- Community government
- Public safety
- Law enforcement
- Critical manufacturing
- Financial services
- Transportation
- Communication
- Water and wastewater industries
- Attorneys and law firms
What Can I Do Even if I am Able to Stay Open?
Even if your business is exempt from closure, you should consider doing your part to minimize the spread of COVID-19. This could include (a) having employees work from home, if possible; (b) sanitizing the work-place; (c) ensuring you have an adequate supply of hand sanitizer for employees; and (d) encouraging sick employees to stay home. Everyone is being asked to do their part to ensure that our healthcare system is not overwhelmed.
Regardless of whether your business is open or not, stay safe and wash your hands.