TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Starting Wednesday, everyone in Leon County will be under a stay at home order and curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., but many people want more clarity.
ABC 27 took your question to city leaders and got some answers:
- What qualifies as an essential store, especially if no stores are closed?
Essential refers to the grocery store, gas station, and pharmacies. However, businesses aren't being required to close right now, but are encouraged to practice social distancing.
- Why is the county letting business stay open?
The current order says people in Leon County can only be out for things like work, getting gas, groceries and even dropping children off at childcare. Officials say they are allowing those businesses to remain open to keep the local economy going.
- Does the 10-person limit apply to those places?
While there is a limit of 10 people in place, it doesn't apply to stores, places of worship, office spaces, child care facilities, and airports. For some balance, they are being asked to practice social distancing, meaning keeping a six foot space from one person to another.
- Will I get stopped by police if I am out past curfew?
Law enforcement will focus on breaking up groups larger than 10 and have the power to stop anyone out past the curfew and ask where that person is headed. Anyone caught breaking the law could be fined up to $500 and/or get 60 days in jail.
The order will be in place in Leon County until the local state of emergency is lifted.
