Gov. McMaster gives 'stay home' order for South Carolina, restricts crowd sizes in stores

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCIV) — South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster announced Monday he is issuing a statewide order for people to limit their movements outside their home in an effort to fight the spread of COVID-19.

“As we have said before, when the science, data, facts and experts determine it’s time to take action, it would be taken. It’s time,” said Gov. McMaster. “Taking this measure now will hopefully slow the future rise in infections and the virus’ toll on our state’s economy.”

The so-called "Home or Work" order stipulates South Carolinians must remain at home unless they are participating in "Essential Business" or "Essential Activities," including:

People who work for "Critical Infrastructure Operations," a list of which can be found here, also are exempt from the order's call to stay home because of the importance and nature of their jobs.

All those exceptions come with the understanding that individuals are still to maintain "social distancing," and to use telecommuting, online ordering, curbside pickup and delivery options when available.

Otherwise, those found to be in violation of the order could be subjected either to a fine of $100, or up to 30 days in jail.

The governor’s “Home or Work” order goes into effect Tuesday, April 7, at 5 p.m.

Additionally, Gov. McMaster has ordered all retail businesses remaining open must limit customers inside to no more than 5 customers per 1,000 square feet, or 20% of maximum capacity, whichever is less.

Many non-essential businesses, as determined by state government, are to remain closed. No new businesses are to close pursuant to Monday's order, but those previously ordered to shut down include: