MAY 13, 2020
Gov. Larry Hogan announced Wednesday he is lifting Maryland's stay-at-home order effective at 5 p.m. Friday as the state has seen a slight two-week decline in hospitalizations due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Hogan said he is replacing the order with a
"Safer at Home" advisory that will not be enforced by the rule of law. It allows manufacturing, retail, haircuts and worship services to resume with limitations.
"Marylanders will no longer be required to stay at home, but are strongly advised to stay at home, particularly older and more vulnerable Marylanders," Hogan said. "If you can work from home, you should continue to do so. You should continue wearing masks in indoor public areas, retail stores, and on public transportation."
Restrictions on gatherings of larger than 10 people and closure of businesses deemed nonessential remain in place.
Hogan's announcement means that all manufacturing may resume and retail stores may reopen at up to 50% of capacity with curbside service encouraged. Such stores include clothing and shoe sellers, pet groomers, car washes, art galleries and book stores.
Churches and houses of worship may begin to hold religious services at up to 50% of capacity, with outdoor services encouraged.
The order also means that barber shops and hair salons may open with up to 50% capacity, and by appointment only.
While Maryland is moving toward reopening, "it does not mean that we are safe or that this crisis is over," Hogan said. "Low risk does not mean no risk."
Hogan said people at risk of complications should continue to stay inside, everyone should still wear masks in indoor public areas and employees should work from home as much as possible. Physical distancing continues to be a must, and large gatherings are still prohibited, Hogan said.
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