Governor J.B. Pritzker is extending Illinois’ stay-at-home order with some modifications. The modified order will go into effect May 1st and will run through the end of the month–something with which State Representatives Dan Brady and Tm Bennett share an issue: geography.
Brady says, “We’d really to see, obviously, a more regional basis. I think there are certain small businesses that should be allowed to reopen allowing more Illinoisans to get back to work.”
Bennett would have also liked to have seen the governor take a regional approach instead of a statewide one saying, “Lift more restrictions on the areas of the state where there have been fewer confirmed cases of the coronavirus.”
Under the order, certain elective surgeries for non-life threatening conditions will be approved if specific criteria are met. Greenhouses, garden centers, and nurseries will be considered essential businesses, and non-essential retail stores can reopen to fulfill telephone and online orders.
Face coverings will be required in public places and essential businesses and manufacturers must provide face coverings to employees where social distancing can’t be maintained.
Schools will also be allowed to establish procedures for pick-up of needed supplies and belongings.
