DC Mayor Extends Public Health Emergency, Stay at Home Order, and Closure of Non-Essential Businesses to May 15

The Mayor’s Order also mandates protocols for certain facilities and residences in which the threat of rapid COVID-19 spread exists and vulnerable populations reside:

• DC-funded community living facilities for individuals with medical, physical, or other healthcare conditions;
• DC-regulated nursing homes and assisted living facilities;
• low barrier emergency shelters for homeless individuals and individuals fleeing domestic violence;
• the Department of Corrections’ Correctional Treatment Facility, Central Cell Block; and Central Detention Facility;
• the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Service’s New Beginnings Youth Development Center and Youth Services Center; and
• psychiatric hospitals, including St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and the Psychiatric Institute of Washington.

Individuals who provide direct support services at those facilities, the Order declares, are considered essential healthcare providers, necessary for the City’s response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

The Order also clarifies that face masks are required for:

• hotel workers, guests, and visitors;
• individuals using taxis, rideshares, and private transportation providers; and
• workers and customers of food sellers.

As for workers and individuals using public transit, the Order encourages them to wear face masks.

Under the Order, people in the City should continue to stay at home, only leaving for essential purposes. If they leave their residence, they must continue to social distance from others not in their household and should wear face coverings if visiting essential businesses, such as grocery stores and pharmacies. Non-essential businesses must remain closed. And, DC students will continue to learn remotely.