COVID-19 Industry Update
April 16, 2020
Due to the ongoing threat of the COVID-19 virus, the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners on Thursday extended its Local State of Emergency declaration for another seven days and all orders pursuant to it, including the closure of public beaches, community pools and playgrounds.
The Commission also directed staff to develop programs that will provide critical financial assistance to businesses and individuals impacted by COVID-19 through forthcoming funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The county has already established a working group to plan for the distribution of the funds once the CARES Act federal guidelines are received.
Pinellas County remains under Governor Ron DeSantis’ Safer at Home Order, which directs everyone to stay home except for essential activities. Businesses not listed as essential by the state must remain closed through the duration of the order unless they are reclassified by the state.
Stay Home, Stay Safe
Pinellas residents continue to help stop the spread of coronavirus by following the state’s Safer at Home Order. With the order in effect through April 30, citizens are reminded they can leave home only to obtain essential services or perform essential activities. Seniors and people with significant underlying health conditions must stay home as much as possible to limit their risk of exposure to COVID-19.
Social Distancing
Pinellas County parks, preserves and the Pinellas Trail remain open, except for Sand Key and Fort De Soto parks, allowing citizens to get fresh air and exercise. Outdoor activities must be done with social distancing of six feet and in groups of no more than 10 people from the same household. The same rules apply to other essential activities, including grocery shopping or attending a religious service. For more details on the Safer at Home Order, how to stay safe and where to get help, visit PinellasCounty.org/COVID19.
