RALEIGH – Gov. Roy Cooper has extended the state’s curfew and modified stay-at-home order for three more weeks, he announced at a media briefing today from the Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh.
“We have turned the page on a new year – one that we’re hoping will bring better times. But as we know, the virus didn’t disappear at midnight on December 31,” Gov. Cooper said. “No matter where you live, work, worship or play, COVID-19 remains a deadly threat, and we must treat it that way.”
Executive Order 188, signed today, extends EO 181’s provisions. Under the order, North Carolinians are required to stay at home and travel only for work or to obtain essential goods or services during the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
Worship, religious, and spiritual gatherings, funeral ceremonies, wedding ceremonies, and other activities constituting the exercise of First Amendment rights continue to remain exempt from the order.
The order does not apply to retail businesses that sell groceries, medication, fuel, or health care supplies.
The order also continues to keep indoor rides and attractions closed and non-bar night spots and arenas are restricted to 25 guests per facility. Mass gatherings limits remain unchanged, continuing at 10 individuals indoors and 50 individuals outdoors.
The prohibition on alcohol service for on-site consumption will continue to be in effect as well.
Events outside of homes must also end no later than 10:00 p.m. including live entertainment events, movie screenings, and youth and amateur sporting events. However, professional and collegiate sporting events may continue after 10:00 p.m.
During NCDHHS secretary Mandy Cohen’s remarks, she said she was also issuing a “secretarial order” to tell North Carolinians to stay home except for essential activities and avoid gathering with anyone outside of a person’s household.
“There is an alarming amount of virus everywhere in our state. We are in a very dangerous position,” said Cohen. “Every single North Carolinian needs to take immediate action to save lives and protect themselves and each other.”
Cohen said those over the age of 65 and anyone with significant risk factors for contract COVID-19 should not leave their home and consider using delivery services or alternate pickup methods for groceries and other essential items.
Today’s order will be effective through Jan. 29.
