For Immediate Release:
Monday, March 23, 2020
Indiana Stay-At-Home Order FAQ
INDIANAPOLIS – Governor Eric J. Holcomb delivered a statewide address
Monday to order that Hoosiers remain in their homes except when they are
at work or for permitted activities, such as taking care of others, obtaining
necessary supplies, and for health and safety. The related press release
is attached. Below are frequently asked questions and their answers.
When does the order take effect?
The Stay-At-Home Order takes effect Tuesday, March 24 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
When does the order end?
The order ends on Monday, April 6, at 11:59 p.m. ET, but could be extended
if the outbreak warrants it.
Where does the order apply?
The Stay-At-Home Order applies to the entire state of Indiana. Unless you
work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity, you
must stay home.
Is this mandatory or a recommendation?
This order is mandatory. For the safety of all Hoosiers, people must stay
home and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
How will this order be enforced?
Staying home is critical to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in your community.
Adhering to the order will save lives, and it is the responsibility of
every Hoosier to do their part. However, if the order is not followed,
the Indiana State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce
this order. The Indiana State Department of Health and the Alcohol and
Tobacco Commission will enforce the restaurant and bar restrictions.
Will the Indiana National Guard enforce this order?
No. The Indiana National Guard is aiding in planning, preparation and logistics
with other state agencies. For example, the Indiana National Guard assists
in distributing hospital supplies the state receives.
What is an essential business?
Essential businesses and services include but are not limited to grocery
stores, pharmacies, gas stations, police stations, fire stations, hospitals,
doctor’s offices, health care facilities, garbage pickup, public
transit, and public service hotlines such as SNAP and HIP 2.0.
A list can be found in the Governor’s executive order at
in.gov/coronavirus.
What is an essential activity?
Essential activities include but are not limited to activities for health
and safety, necessary supplies and services, outdoor activity, certain
types of essential work, and to take care of others.
A list can be found in the Governor’s executive order at
in.gov/coronavirus.
I work for an essential business. Will I be allowed to travel to and from work?
Law enforcement will not be stopping drivers on their way to and from work,
traveling for an essential activity such as going to the grocery store,
or just taking a walk.
Will the grocery store/pharmacy be open?
Yes, grocery stores and pharmacies are essential services.
Can I still order take out/delivery from restaurants and bars?
Yes, restaurants and bars can continue to provide takeout and delivery,
but should be closed to dine-in patrons.
Can I get my groceries delivered? Can I still get my online orders delivered?
Yes, you can still receive packages, get groceries delivered, and get meals
delivered.
How can I get medical care?
If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing,
and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or
have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay
home and call your healthcare provider.
If you suspected you have COVID-19, please call the healthcare provider
in advance so that proper precautions can be taken to limit further transmission.
Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions
or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early,
even if their illness is mild.
If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the
chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face, contact
your healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately,
but please call in advance if possible. Your doctor will determine if
you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.
Nonessential medical care such as eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be
postponed. When possible, health care visits should be done remotely.
Contact your health care provider to see what telehealth services they provide.
What is the guidance for individuals with intellectual and developmental
disabilities?
State-operated developmental centers, intermediate care facilities for
individuals with developmental disabilities and community integrated living
arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff
are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals
in the home setting.
If you have specific questions about your support and services, reach out
to your provider or individual service coordination agency.
What if I still have to go to work?
You should stay home unless your work is an essential function such as
a health care provider, grocery store clerk or first responder. If you
have been designated essential by your employer, you should continue to
go to work and practice social distancing.
A list of essential businesses can be found in the Governor’s executive order at
in.gov/coronavirus.
What if I think my business should be closed, but they’re still asking
me to report to work?
Essential businesses will remain open during the stay-at-home order to
provide services that are vital to the lives of Hoosiers. If you believe
your business is nonessential but still are being asked to show up to
work, you may discuss it with your employer.
A certain service is essential for me, but the governor didn’t include
it. What do I do?
The stay-at-home order was issued to protect the health, safety and well-being
of Hoosiers. Although some businesses such as fitness centers and salons
will be closed, essential services will always be available. For a list
of essential businesses that will continue to operate during the order, visit
in.gov/coronavirus.
Will public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis continue?
Public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis should only be used for essential travel.
Will roads in Indiana be closed?
No, the roads will remain open. You should only travel if it is for your
health or essential work.
Can I still take a plane out of Indiana?
Planes and other types of transportation should be used for essential travel.
What if my home is not a safe environment?
If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and encouraged to
find another safe place to stay during this order. Please reach out so
someone can help. You can call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE
or your local law enforcement.
What about homeless people who cannot stay at home?
The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Hoosiers,
regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community
organizations to ensure the homeless population has safe shelter.
Can I visit friends and family?
For your safety, as well as the safety of all Hoosiers, you should remain
at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19. You may visit family members
who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate
food supply.
Can I walk my dog or go to the veterinarian?
You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should
they require it. Practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining
at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.
Can I take my kids to the park?
State parks remain open, but welcome centers, inns, and other buildings
are closed. Families will be able to go outside and take a walk, run or
bike ride, but they should continue to practice social distancing by remaining
6 feet away from other people. Playgrounds are closed because they pose
a high risk of increasing spreading the virus.
Can I attend a religious service?
Large gatherings, including church services, will be canceled to slow the
spread of COVID-19. Religious leaders are encouraged to continue livestreaming
services while practicing social distancing with one another.
Can I leave my home to exercise?
Outdoor exercise such as running or taking a walk is acceptable. However,
gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities will be closed to reduce
the spread of the coronavirus. While exercising outside, you still should
practice social distancing by running or walking at least 6 feet away
from other people.
Can I go to the hair salon, spa, nail salon, tattoo parlor or barber shop?
No, these businesses are ordered closed.
Can I leave my home to do laundry?
Yes, Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers are considered
essential businesses.
Can I take my child to daycare?
Yes, daycares are considered an essential business.
Can I pick up meals at my child’s school?
Yes, Schools that provide free food services to students will continue
on a pickup and take-home basis.