Illinois Imposes Public Face Coverings or Masks

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced that the state’s stay-at-home order will be extended through the end of May. The extension will go through along with some changes. The modified order will go into effect on May 1. The modified executive order will include the following changes:

OUTDOOR RECREATION

The Department of Natural Resources will issue guidance under which the state parks will begin a phased re-opening. Permission is given to fishing and boating in groups of no more than two people. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources guidelines and list of reopening parks are on their website. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has issued strict safety guidelines under which golf will be permitted.

NEW ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES

Greenhouses, garden centers, and nurseries may re-open as essential businesses. The social distancing requirements must be followed by these stores. The stores are also required that their employees and customers wear a face covering. The animal grooming services may also reopen.

NON-ESSENTIAL RETAIL

The non-essential retail businesses and operations can reopen, but they have to fulfill telephone and online orders through pick-up outside the store and delivery.

FACE COVERINGS

As the modified executive order goes through on May 1, the individuals will be required to wear face masks or any covering when in pubic where social distancing of six-feet can’t be maintained. Face-coverings will be required in public indoor spaces, such as stores. This requirement will be applied to all individuals above the age of 2 who are able to tolerate a face-covering or a mask medically.

ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES AND MANUFACTURING

All employees of the essential business and manufacturers will be required to be given face-coverings who can’t maintain social distancing of six-feet. They will also be required to maximize social distancing and prioritizing the well-being of employees and customers.