Gov. Carney restricts large gatherings and enforces strict social distancing requirements for businesses

DELAWARE — Governor John Carney has signed the ninth modification to his state of emergency declaration, ordering essential businesses to take specific steps to enforce social distancing and further limiting public gatherings.

The modified emergency order limits public gatherings to only 10 people through May 15th or until the public health threat has been eliminated. This includes weddings funerals and related activities.

The order also requires new action from essential businesses that remain open. Businesses must allow no more than 20 percent of stated fire capacity in the store at any given time – and no more than 10 percent during exclusive hours for high-risk populations.

It also states that essential businesses should clearly mark six-foot spacing in check-out lines and other “high-traffic” areas, including outside. Essential businesses must also stop any self-serve foods and/or product sampling.

Governor Carney’s emergency declaration will take effect Thursday at 8 p.m.  It has the force and effect of law. Any failure to comply with the provisions contained in a Declaration of a State of Emergency or any modification to a Declaration of the State of Emergency constitutes a criminal offense.Officials warn failure to comply with the provisions will constitute as a criminal offense.