Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey issued a mandatory stay-at-home order for the state of Alabama effective April 4, at 5 p.m. in a news conference held April 3.
The move comes as the U.S. faces an ever-increasing number of positive tests for the coronavirus. Those rising numbers correspond with an expected increase in the number of COVID-19 cases requiring hospitalization.
“Our expected surge in hospitalization is in two to three weeks,” Ivey said. “Those patients are the ones who will become infected in the next few days. We need to extend our health orders now.”
Ivey was joined by Alabama State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris. Ivey said cell phone data indicated Alabamians were not staying home as recommended and were “just not paying attention.”
Alabamians are ordered to stay home except in certain circumstances, which include to work in essential situations, to obtain necessary supplies, to take care of others, to seek shelter and to engage in outdoor activities.
An exception for attending religious services is also included as long as the event involves fewer than 10 people who maintain a consistent 6-foot distance from one another.
Drive-in worship services are allowed, according to the order, if participants remain in vehicles the entire time, people in each vehicle all share the same residence, and participants do not come within six feet of participants in other vehicles.
Other previously issued state health orders remain in force, including prohibitions on all non-work related gatherings of 10 people or more. Nonessential businesses also must remain closed.
Anyone leaving their home during this order must continue to take “reasonable steps to maintain six feet of separation from other persons.”
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said violating the mandated stay-at-home order could be a misdemeanor charge carrying fines up to $500.
Read the full order here. (TAB)
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