Gov. Kemp extends COVID-19 safety measures due to expire June 30

Executive Order 06.29.20.02 continues to require social distancing, bans gatherings of more than 50 people, unless there is six feet between each person, and outlines mandatory criteria for businesses and a Public Health State of Emergency for procurement, comprehensive testing and healthcare capacity. Sheltering in place for those living in long-term care facilities and the medically fragile also remains mandatory. The new order expires Aug. 11.

The new safety measures also stipulate that the State Board of Education must provide “rules, regulations, and guidance for the operation of public elementary and secondary schools for local boards of education” in accordance with guidance from Dr. Kathleen Toomey, the Department of Public Health, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. The order runs through 11:59 PM on July 15.

“As we continue our fight against COVID-19 in Georgia, it is vital that Georgians continue to heed public health guidance by wearing a mask, washing their hands regularly, and practicing social distancing,” said Gov. Kemp. “We have made decisions throughout the pandemic to protect the lives – and livelihoods – of all Georgians by relying on data and the advice of public health officials.”

“While we continue to see a decreasing case fatality rate, expanded testing, and adequate hospital surge capacity, in recent days, Georgia has seen an increase in new cases reported and current hospitalizations. Given these trends, I am extending previous COVID-19 safety requirements and guidelines that were due to expire on June 30 at 11:59 PM. Dr. Kathleen Toomey and the Department of Public Health, along with our local public health partners, will continue to monitor ongoing cases and related data to ensure that we are taking appropriate measures moving forward. Together, we can win the fight against COVID-19 and emerge stronger.”

Read Executive Orders 06.29.20.01 and 06.29.20.02 here.