N.C. executive order puts new regulations in place for grocery stores, other businesses

RALEIGH, N.C. (4/10/2020) — North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has issued an executive order expanding the “stay at home” guidelines for its citizens. The new rules set to take effect Monday, April 13th at 5 p.m. will apply to all retailers. 

  • Limit the number of customers inside at any one time to 20 percent of allowed capacity under fire regulations, or five people per 1,000 square feet.
  • Maintain 6-foot separation between customers at checkout lines and other areas where customers congregate.
  • Routinely disinfect stores.

The order also encourages:

  • Limit aisles to one-way traffic.
  • Install plastic shields to separate cashiers from customers.
  • Set aside specific hours for senior citizens to shop.
  • Make hand sanitizer available for customers and staff.

The governor said, “Law enforcement has authority to issue class two misdemeanors (maximum penalty is 60 days in jail and a fine of $1,000). We believe retail stores understand and will follow rules. Families should also just send one person to the store. Try not to shop together. Get in and get out quickly.

The executive order states the requirements will last for 30 days unless extended by further executive action.

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