On April 15, 2020, Mayor Muriel Bowser issued Mayor's Order 2020-063, which extends the state of emergency and public health emergency for Washington, DC through May 15, 2020, as the District continues to fight the spread of the coronavirus disease, COVID-19.
Individuals living, working, and visiting Washington, DC should continue to stay at home through May 15, 2020 – only leaving for essential purposes. If leaving their residence, all individuals must continue to practice social distancing from individuals not residing in their household, and should wear face coverings if visiting essential businesses, such as grocery stores and pharmacies. Masks are not a replacement for social distancing. Nonessential businesses will remain closed, and DC students will continue to learn at home, through May 15, 2020.
The mayor issued new health and safety requirements in an effort to protect the public, essential workers, and vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The order clarifies that face masks are required for:
- Hotel workers, guests, and visitors
- Individuals using taxis, ride shares, and private transportation providers
- Workers and customers of food sellers
The order strongly encourages workers and individuals using public transit to wear face masks.
The order includes requirements for individuals working or residing in community living residences and facilities for individuals with medical, physical, psychiatric, or other healthcare conditions that are funded in whole or in part or licensed by the District government. Individuals providing direct healthcare support within these residences and facilities are now considered essential healthcare providers. The order also prohibits all nonessential visitors and nonessential personnel from entering these facilities, requires health status screening of essential employees and essential visitors, and institutes other health safety measures.
The District anticipates staff shortages in facilities and residences for vulnerable members of society. To address this situation, the DC Department of Human Resources will post notices of available positions.
Any individual or entity that knowingly violates this Order may be subject to civil, criminal, and administrative penalties authorized by law. Sanctions or penalties for violating DC Official Code §7-2307 include civil fines, or summary suspension or revocation of licenses.
Individuals are encouraged to call 311 to report any suspected violations of this or other Mayor's Orders related to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Executive action
April 15, 2020: Mayor Muriel Bowser extends COVID-19 public health emergency with Mayor's Order 2020-063.