Indiana governor orders Hoosiers to 'stay at home' through April 7

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb issued an order Monday that Hoosiers "hunker down" at their homes from Wednesday through April 7, saying the state needs to do more to fight the novel coronavirus.

Holcomb's executive order says Hoosiers should generally stay home unless they are going to the grocery or drug store, or doing essential jobs like healthcare workers or first responders. More information about the order is here.

"The next two weeks are critical ... if we are going to slow the spread, and we must slow the spread," Holcomb said in an address. It's possible that the order could be extended beyond April 7, according to the state website.

Indiana has reported seven deaths and 259 virus infections. The state's most recent death from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, was an adult over the age of 60 in northeastern Indiana’s. Allen County's health department announced his death Sunday, the Indiana State Department of Health said.

For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

The vast majority of people recover from the virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild cases recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe ones can take three to six weeks to get better.

Several neighboring states already have issued “stay at home” directives. In Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed an order Friday that requires people to stay in their homes, with some exceptions, through April 7. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine followed suit on Sunday with a similar order, and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a ban for her state on Monday.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has gradually made restrictions in Kentucky. His latest order, announced Sunday night, will close nonessential retail stores across the state by 8 p.m. Monday. He previously ordered bars and restaurants to cease in-person services, curbed visitation to nursing homes and other long-term care facilities and banned mass gatherings, among other steps.

"We’re all seeing the same trends or waves coming, especially in the dense areas, but it is spreading to all counties. So, stay home, get groceries only

when you really need them and buy only what you really need," Holcomb said Monday.

As to how the Indiana order will be enforced, the state says on its website, "(I)f the order is not followed, the Indiana State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce this order. The Indiana State Department of Health and the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission will enforce the restaurant and bar restrictions."

Moratorium on expired licenses, registrations as state workforce pared back

Holcomb issued other orders that direct state authorities to take enforcement action against restaurants that continue in-person service even after the governor’s order banning it last week; ease rules for restaurants to offer carryout alcohol sales; and scale back state government operations to services deemed essential.

Because some restaurants are violating last week’s order, Holcomb said he is ordering the state’s Alcohol and Tobacco Commission to crack down on any scofflaws. Businesses with alcohol permits that still serve food inside will be given a warning and, if it’s not heeded, regulators will suspend their liquor licenses.

Meanwhile, local health departments will deliver letters telling alcohol-free restaurants to stop in-person dining, then issuing fines to violators.

Starting Tuesday, Holcomb said Indiana state government will be reduced to its “absolute essential workforce level,” which includes police, hospitals, police, child protection services and other agencies.

“We’ll be maximizing remote work, online and call centers to continue core functions, such as unemployment insurance and welfare applications,” he said. “Whatever nonessential state business that has to be conducted in person will have to wait.”

The governor said Indiana will automatically extend state-issued licenses by 60 days past their expiration dates. Police and other law enforcement won’t be issuing citations for expired registrations and driver’s licenses, he said.

The complete text of Gov. Holcomb’s address may be found here.

Indiana Stay-At-Home Order FAQ (Provided by Gov. Holcomb's Office):

When does the order take effect?

The Stay-At-Home Order takes effect Tuesday, March 24 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

When does the order end?

The order ends on Monday, April 6, at 11:59 p.m. ET, but could be extended if the outbreak warrants it.

Where does the order apply?

The Stay-At-Home Order applies to the entire state of Indiana. Unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity, you must stay home.

Is this mandatory or a recommendation?

This order is mandatory. For the safety of all Hoosiers, people must stay home and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

How will this order be enforced?

Staying home is critical to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in your community. Adhering to the order will save lives, and it is the responsibility of every Hoosier to do their part. However, if the order is not followed, the Indiana State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce this order. The Indiana State Department of Health and the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission will enforce the restaurant and bar restrictions.

Will the Indiana National Guard enforce this order?

No. The Indiana National Guard is aiding in planning, preparation and logistics with other state agencies. For example, the Indiana National Guard assists in distributing hospital supplies the state receives.

What is an essential business?

Essential businesses and services include but are not limited to grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, police stations, fire stations, hospitals, doctor’s offices, health care facilities, garbage pickup, public transit, and public service hotlines such as SNAP and HIP 2.0.

What is an essential activity?

Essential activities include but are not limited to activities for health and safety, necessary supplies and services, outdoor activity, certain types of essential work, and to take care of others.

I work for an essential business. Will I be allowed to travel to and from work?

Law enforcement will not be stopping drivers on their way to and from work, traveling for an essential activity such as going to the grocery store, or just taking a walk.

Will the grocery store/pharmacy be open?

Yes, grocery stores and pharmacies are essential services.

Can I still order take out/delivery from restaurants and bars?

Yes, restaurants and bars can continue to provide takeout and delivery, but should be closed to dine-in patrons.

Can I get my groceries delivered? Can I still get my online orders delivered?

Yes, you can still receive packages, get groceries delivered, and get meals delivered.

How can I get medical care?

If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.
If you suspected you have COVID-19, please call the healthcare provider in advance so that proper precautions can be taken to limit further transmission. Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild.
If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face, contact your healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately, but please call in advance if possible. Your doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.
Nonessential medical care such as eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed. When possible, health care visits should be done remotely. Contact your health care provider to see what telehealth services they provide.

What is the guidance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

State-operated developmental centers, intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities and community integrated living arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals in the home setting.
If you have specific questions about your support and services, reach out to your provider or individual service coordination agency.

What if I still have to go to work?

You should stay home unless your work is an essential function such as a health care provider, grocery store clerk or first responder. If you have been designated essential by your employer, you should continue to go to work and practice social distancing.

What if I think my business should be closed, but they’re still asking me to report to work?

Essential businesses will remain open during the stay-at-home order to provide services that are vital to the lives of Hoosiers. If you believe your business is nonessential but still are being asked to show up to work, you may discuss it with your employer.

A certain service is essential for me, but the governor didn’t include it. What do I do?

The stay-at-home order was issued to protect the health, safety and well-being of Hoosiers. Although some businesses such as fitness centers and salons will be closed, essential services will always be available.

Will public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis continue?

Public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis should only be used for essential travel.

Will roads in Indiana be closed?

No, the roads will remain open. You should only travel if it is for your health or essential work.

Can I still take a plane out of Indiana?

Planes and other types of transportation should be used for essential travel.

What if my home is not a safe environment?

If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and encouraged to find another safe place to stay during this order. Please reach out so someone can help. You can call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or your local law enforcement.

What about homeless people who cannot stay at home?

The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Hoosiers, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to ensure the homeless population has safe shelter.

Can I visit friends and family?

For your safety, as well as the safety of all Hoosiers, you should remain at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19. You may visit family members who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate food supply.

Can I walk my dog or go to the veterinarian?

You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. Practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.

Can I take my kids to the park?

State parks remain open, but welcome centers, inns, and other buildings are closed. Families will be able to go outside and take a walk, run or bike ride, but they should continue to practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from other people. Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing spreading the virus.

Can I attend a religious service?

Large gatherings, including church services, will be canceled to slow the spread of COVID-19. Religious leaders are encouraged to continue livestreaming services while practicing social distancing with one another.

Can I leave my home to exercise?

Outdoor exercise such as running or taking a walk is acceptable. However, gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities will be closed to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. While exercising outside, you still should practice social distancing by running or walking at least 6 feet away from other people.

Can I go to the hair salon, spa, nail salon, tattoo parlor or barber shop?