Oregon Gov. Kate Brown on Monday ordered residents to stay at home and expanded the list of businesses that will be forced close in an effort to stem the spread of the coronavirus.
The order, which goes into effect immediately, mandates that residents stay home when possible and prohibits any nonessential gatherings, regardless of size, if a distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained between people.
The list expands businesses that will be mandated to close, including barber shops, salons, fitness and gym facilities, theaters and arcades as well as others.
The order also closes gyms and theaters, as well as all playgrounds and outdoor parks. Grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, restaurants that offer takeout or delivery and other essential businesses will remain open. Violations of the order will be considered an immediate danger to public health and subject to a misdemeanor charge.
The full list of the types of businesses the governor ordered closed can be found on page 4 of the Executive Order.
During Monday’s Hermiston City Council meeting, Hermiston Police Chief Jason Edmiston said he has told his department to use “common sense” when deciding how to handle a local violation.
