LEONARDTOWN, MD (March 16, 2020) – Today, Gov. Larry Hogan announced at a news conference. statewide restrictions on all bars, restaurants, movie theaters and gyms. These businesses will close at 5 p.m. while Maryland tries to slow the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the state. Some drive-throughs can remain open and carry-out and food delivery service will still be available. Grocery stores and pharmacies will also remain open. Hogan reiterated that these restrictions will be strictly enforced until further notice.
Local liquor stores, bars, and restaurants with questions relating to alcohol service should contact the Alcohol Beverage Board of St. Mary’s County by calling 301-475-4200, ext. 71600. Local grocery stores and retailers that are permitted to stay open are encouraged to consider implementing curb-side pickup or delivery services if possible.
Last week, Maryland officials decided to close schools for two weeks and limit visitors to hospitals, nursing homes and senior living facilities. Hogan said it is difficult to predict, but that schools could be closed longer than two weeks. Officials also enacted an executive order to prohibit all gatherings and events with more than 50 people. Hogan has closed the cruise terminal at the Port of Baltimore and closed all casinos and racetracks over the weekend. He also mandated telework for state employees.
Currently, there are no confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in St. Mary’s County.
Community members, healthcare providers, and local business owners are encouraged to visit the St. Mary’s County Health Department’s website for COVID-19 updates and information at www.smchd.org/coronavirus.
Residents can call the COVID-19 Community Hotline at 301-475-4911 Monday-Saturday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. for information relating to COVID-19.
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