Monday afternoon Gov. Doug Ducey issued a statewide stay at home executive order for all Arizona residents to remain in their homes for the next month except for essential needs to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
The stay-at-home executive order, will take effect Tuesday, March 31st at 5 p.m. This order will still allow residents to go out for essential services such as picking up medicine and buying groceries
The executive order will remain in effect until April 30, unless state leadership chooses to extend it.
“Our order takes a uniquely Arizona approach,” Ducey said during a press conference. “It’s a whole, holistic approach that prioritizes all of public health, placing a focus on staying home to slow the spread, staying healthy and active, and staying connected to provide the much needed support we can provide one another in these unprecedented times.”
Ducey assured residents that grocery stores and drug stores will remain open, and restaurants would be able to continue with delivery and takeout service under as defined under a previous executive order.
During Monday’s announcement, Ducey encouraged people to stay home, stay healthy, stay connected. He encourages residents to enjoy the outdoors as long as they are keeping clear of others. In addition, he also encourages the use of technology to stay connected with family and friends during this stressful time.
“We do not want people to feel trapped or isolated in their homes. The weather is beautiful right now. Find ways to get out and enjoy it — with physical distancing,” he said.
The number of reported cases in the state climbed to 1,157, with 20 deaths, Monday morning, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
The stay-at-home order follows dozens of other states, including California, New York and Illinois, experiencing rising case numbers and death tolls.
Ducey said the decision was recommended by state Health Director Dr. Cara Christ based on the latest data specific to the situation in Arizona.
“Today I am announcing that the time for further action is now,” Ducey said after listing off the several previous steps his team has taken.
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 2,405 deaths from more than 140,000 COVID-19 cases as of Monday.
Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected
