Governor Little announced today that the stay-at-home order would continue and that upcoming decisions to “re-open” business should be done based on the best scientific information available. Our current health care systems have not been overwhelmed yet thanks to most Idahoans following CDC guidelines to stay at home, social distance, wash hands, and wear masks in public. If we want to continue to safeguard public health, we must stay vigilant in these actions to reduce the number of severely ill patients and deaths.  

This was a difficult decision to make and a difficult one to follow. Lives have been disrupted. People can’t pay the bills, people are sick, socially isolated, and discouraged. However, we must use that Idaho resiliency and discipline to make conservative decisions that will increase public safety and reduce severe illness and death.

Click here to read to more...

Gov Little Extends Stay-at-Home Order

According to Governor Little, “Idaho will be better positioned for a strong economic comeback because we are making difficult changes in how we live and work in the short-term. The statewide stay-home order is working to flatten the curve and slow the spread of coronavirus in Idaho, but the science tells us if you don’t time these measures right then we could worsen the outcome for citizens’ health and the economy weeks or months down the road.”  

Idahoans should continue to practice all the behaviors they have been doing since March 25, when Governor Little issued the 21-day order.

However, formerly “non-essential” facilities and services under the order may offer curbside and delivery services between now and April 30.

In addition, Governor Little’s amended order issued today requires out-of-state travelers to self-quarantine in Idaho for 14 days after entering. Those performing essential services or those who live in one state and work or gain essential services in another state are excluded.

Governor Little also said “non-essential” businesses should prepare to reopen after April 30 as long as they prepare operational plans over the next two weeks to maintain social distancing for staff and patrons; provide adequate sanitation and protective coverings for employees, vendors, and patrons; offer curbside and pickup delivery; limit number of people in business at a time; and direct flow of people in the operation.

This excludes some “non-essential” businesses where people simply cannot safely social distance, such as nightclubs, bars, and restaurants for dine-in; indoor gyms and recreational facilities; hair and nail salons; convention and entertainment centers; and public events and gatherings.

He noted that may not occur if there is an upward trend of severe COVID-19 cases in Idaho between now and April 30.

Click here to read his full press release.