Governor Roy Cooper has issued a new Executive Order that extends public school closures through May 15th and shuts down massage therapy, nail and hair salons, gyms, and movie theaters.
The new Order also lowers the threshold of legal gatherings from 100 people to 50.
Those businesses that require close contact with clients, which include barbershops, must close no later than 5 pm on Wednesday. But the Governor asks they close earlier, if possible.
Cooper also insists there is still no need for public panic.
"Grocery stores will remain open, as will restaurants providing takeout and delivery. I ask again – please do not overbuy at the grocery store. I’ve had almost all of the grocery store officials on the phone, and they continue to tell me that supply lines are open. They are also hiring former restaurant employees."
Childcare businesses, however, are critical to the Coronavirus response, says Cooper -- especially for medical professionals who need to know their kids are in good hands while they do battle with COVID-19.
Cooper also says officials are working with North Carolina manufacturers on how to modify their production lines to make critical supplies – such as personal protective equipment like masks, gloves, and gowns.
