
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis’ executive order mandating Floridians stay at home starting at 12:01 a.m. Friday contains exemptions for “essential services.” That list is extensive.
The order supersedes all local government shelter-in-place or stay home orders, although local governments can impose further restrictions as they deem appropriate.
Four of the “essential services” are explicitly defined in the order:
- Attending religious services conducted in churches, synagogues and houses of worship
- Participating in recreational activities (consistent with social distancing guidelines) such as walking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, running, or swimming
- Taking care of pets
- Caring for or otherwise assisting a loved one or friend.