As the state continues to make progress in preparing for the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Tim Walz extended the Stay at Home Order in Minnesota thru Monday, May 18, 2020. In an effort to get more Minnesotans back safely to work while the order remains in effect, the Governor announced that retail businesses and other non-critical businesses will resume operations with curbside pick-up. Also as part of his Executive Order, Governor Walz strongly encouraged all Minnesotans to wear a manufactured or homemade mask at all times when they leave their homes to any place where social distancing is difficult.
By extending the Stay Home Order, the Governor said the state will: slow the spread of COVID-19 and slowly build herd immunity; protect those working on the front lines by increasing access to personal protective equipment; ensure our health system can care for all who require care; gradually allow more Minnesotans to return to work; and safely and slowly resume in-person contacts and other activities that are critical for our well-being. The extended Stay at Home Order, Emergency Executive Order 20-48 is effective through 11:59 p.m. on May 17, 2020 and outlines exemptions to the Stay Home Order, including exempted activities and critical sector workers.
Under the extended order, Minnesotans may leave their residences only to perform the following activities, and while doing so, they should practice social distancing:
o Relocation to ensure safety, such as relocating to a different location if your home is unsafe due to domestic violence, sanitation, or reasons related to essential operations.
o Health and safety activities, such as obtaining emergency services or medical supplies. Individuals may also donate blood.
o Outdoor activities, such as picnicking, walking, hiking, running, biking, boating, golfing, hunting, or fishing.
o Necessary supplies and services, such as getting groceries, gasoline, or carry-out.
o Essential intrastate and interstate travel, such as returning to a home from outside this state.
o Care of others, such as caring for a family member, friend, or pet in another household.
Frequently asked questions on COVID-19 and Stay Home Order are available from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).
o Displacement, such as moving between emergency shelters if you are without a home.
o Moving or relocation, such as moving to a new home or place of residence.
o Voting, including all local and state elections.
o Funerals, provided that no more than ten attendees are gathered and strict social distancing is enforced.
o Weddings, provided that no more than ten attendees are gathered and the location must allow for social distancing and compliance to the maximum extent possible.
o Tribal activities and lands, such as activities by members within the boundaries of their tribal reservation.
Executive Order 20-48 also orders that all workers who can work from home must do so. Workers in critical sectors who cannot work from home are permitted to go to work. Guidance related to critical sectors is available at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) website.