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La. Governor issues 'Stay at Home' order: What that means for you

New Orleans has already been under a similar order issued by Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

NEW ORLEANS — Gov. John Bel Edwards issued a statewide "Stay at Home" order, set to go into effect on Monday, March 23, at 5 p.m.

The shelter in place order closes more businesses and enforces a stricter form of "social distancing," asking people to stay at home unless absolutely necessary.

New Orleans has already been under a similar order issued by Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

The order is set to expire on April 13 unless it is extended.

What is an essential activity?

  • Accessing healthcare
  • Getting essential supplies for your home
  • Going to an essential job

What can’t you do?

  • No public or private gatherings. Keep groups under 10 people.
  • All Bars, health clubs, gyms, malls and event venues are CLOSED
  • Eating in or waiting for food at restaurants. (takeout and delivery still OK)

NOTE: This DOES NOT stop you from leaving your home. Officials ask that you limit yourself to essential travel only, but encourage exercise such as walking, hiking or bicycling as long as you stick to social distancing guidelines.

What CAN you do?

  • Go to the grocery, convenience or warehouse store
  • Go to the pharmacy
  • Go to medical appointments
  • Go to a restaurant for take out or get delivery
  • Take a walk, ride your bike, etc. -- just respect social distancing guidelines
  • Walk your pets and take them to the veterinarian
  • Help someone get necessary supplies
  • Receive deliveries

Who is an “essential service provider?”

  • Healthcare
  • Food service and restaurants (delivery and takeout only)
  • Social Services
  • Construction and critical infrastructure
  • News and Media
  • Gas station and car repair
  • Bicycle supply and repair
  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Hardware stores
  • Mailing and shipping services
  • Laundry
  • Work from home support suppliers
  • Hotels
  • Essential transportation service providers
  • Home-based care for seniors, adults and children
  • Residential facilities for seniors, adults and children
  • Legal and accounting services
  • Childcare facilities (practicing proper social distancing)

Read the Governor's proclamation here.

"The bottom line is we're in a race against time when it comes to this coronavirus and how it is spread in Louisiana," Edwards said. 

The governor noted that businesses that have been closed are not being stopped from doing maintenance, filing payroll or other essential functions while they're closed.

Gov. Edwards also addressed rumors that Louisiana could close borders on a state or parish level saying that those rumors are not true and such measures have not even been considered.

RELATED: Coronavirus live updates: US cities issuing stay-at-home orders

RELATED: COVID-19 Timeline: See how fast things have changed in Louisiana

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