Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has instituted a “stay at home” order for the Free State. Under this order, residents may only leave their homes after 8 p.m. for essential reasons. Essential reasons may include, but are not limited to exercise, grocery shopping, work and taking care of loved ones.
Hogan’s order comes as an effort to corral the spread of COVID-19 in the state. Thus far, there are more than 1,400 confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the state.
“I realize this is incredibly difficult on everyone in our state, but I want people to know that we have been through difficult challenges before and that we are going to get through this together,” Hogan said.
NEW: Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan: "We have reached a critical turning point in the fight to stop the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic here in Maryland" and in the region. https://t.co/WE7OSi25s4 pic.twitter.com/7cVpjsd6DY
— ABC News (@ABC) March 30, 2020
Those who violate the order may fave misdemeanor charges. As a result, those who violate the order may face up to one year in jail and receive a fine up to $5,000.
“We are no longer asking or suggesting that Marylanders stay home. We are directing them to do so,” the Maryland governor said.
Maryland joins New York, New York in instituting fines for those who violate “stay at home” orders. In the big apple, those who violate the order may earn fines up to $500.
Hogan’s “stay at home” order will go in to effect tonight.
