COVID-19 Daily Briefing 4/7

April 7, 4:30 p.m.

April 6, 7 p.m.

Gov. Carney Updates State of Emergency; bans short-term rentals

Gov. John Carney on Monday issued his tenth modification to the State of Emergency declaration. Effective Tuesday April 7 at 8 p.m., this update  bans all short-term rental units – including vacation home rentals, hotels, motels, and condo rentals, and will remain closed through May 15, or until the public health threat is eliminated.

The order exempts certain Delawareans and essential workers who may need access to short-term rental units. That list of exemptions includes caretakers with family members nearby, health care providers, journalists, Delawareans with public housing vouchers, and victims of domestic violence who need alternative shelter.

Monday’s order also bans door-to-door solicitation and closespawn shops, video game stores, and other electronics retailers.

“All of Delaware’s restrictions are intended to prevent a surge in cases, preserve our hospital capacity, and save lives,” said Gov. Carney in a statement.“This is not the time for a vacation or tax-free shopping in Delaware. Delawareans also should not go out in public unnecessarily. Stay safe. Stay home. Protect your neighbors. We’ll get through this – but it’s going to take all of us.”

Governor Carney’s emergency order, including its modifications, have the force and effect of law. Failure to comply constitutes a criminal offense. State and local law enforcement agencies are authorized to enforce the provisions of the State of Emergency.

Delaware employers with questions about how they may be impacted can email covid19FAQ@delaware.gov, or call (302) 577-8477 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Emails are encouraged due to potentially high call volume.