City of Columbia coronavirus (COVID-19) update - Stay at Home Order issued - Tuesday, March 24 at 10 a.m.

(COLUMBIA, MO) - On Tuesday, March 24, Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services Director Stephanie Browning signed a Stay at Home Order (Order 2020-03) related to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

The order was announced at a press conference with Columbia Mayor Brian Treece, Boone County Presiding Commissioner Dan Atwill, Browning and Columbia Chamber of Commerce President Matt McCormick on Tuesday at 10 a.m.

The order is effective beginning 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2020, and will continue to be in effect until 8 a.m. on April 24, 2020, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded or amended. The order’s intent is to ensure that the maximum number of people stay at home to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) while enabling essential services to continue.

There are exemptions in the order related to essential activities, such as obtaining necessary supplies and services, activities related to health and safety, and more. All business and operations, except essential business and operations (as defined in the order), must cease.

Restaurants and retail food establishments may provide pick-up, drive-thru or delivery service.

As outlined in a previous order, all public and private gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, unless exempt by the terms in the order. All playgrounds will be closed to reduce the potential spread, however, public outdoor recreation areas remain open.

Please read the order for all definitions and exemptions. The signed City order is attached. A document with answers to anticipated questions is also attached.