COVID-19 Critical Industries

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Indiana Stay-At-Home Order

The most current Stay-At-Home Order (Executive Order 20-22) was issued on April 20 and is in effect through May 1, unless rescinded, modified or extended.

On March 23, Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-08, ordering all Hoosiers to stay at home from March 25 to April 7 unless they are performing essential functions or work in essential industries. This order was replaced on April 6 by Executive Order 20-18, which was in effect until April 20.

The Stay-At-Home Order instructs Hoosiers to stay home except for matters of health and safety, for necessary supplies and services, for outdoor activity (with social distancing), for certain types of work and to take care of others. The order cites some business and industry exceptions while all others are to cease operations until the order expires. The order mirrors federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommendations.

What does this mean for your job and your business?

If you work in the healthcare industry, you are considered critical in this public emergency.

If you deliver food and necessary supplies to stores, you need to stay on the road.

If you work in public safety or public service, you are needed now more than ever.

Other industries may need to close temporarily to help combat against COVID-19.

The industries in the table below are broad examples of businesses that may remain open. This is not a complete list.

The order cites some exceptions to essential services as well, such as restaurants or bars that can provide off-premises consumption or work through third-party delivery services. These exceptions are in Executive Order 20-04 and Executive Order 20-10. Executive Order 20-11 expanded carryout services for bars and taverns, and Executive Order 20-14 extended measures from the other executive orders (further extended by Executive Order 20-18).

Ask a Question

If you have any questions about your industry or need additional guidance to provide to your employees, see the FAQs section below. If you still need help, call the Critical Industries Hotline at 877-820-0890 or email covidresponse@iedc.in.gov.

Still not sure if your business should close or stay open?

Submit your question for guidance from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation:
Submit a question

General questions from the public or healthcare provider inquiries about COVID-19 may be directed to the ISDH COVID-19 Call Center at the toll-free number 877-826-0011 (available 8 a.m. to midnight).

Latest News

Resources

Help While Temporarily Out of Work

• Indiana Department of Workforce Development
• SBA Disaster Assistance Loans
• Indiana Unemployment Guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

• FAQs
  • When does the order take effect?

    The most current Stay-At-Home Order (Executive Order 20-22) takes effect Monday, April 20, at 11:59 p.m. Executive Order 20-08 took effect Tuesday, March 24, at 11:59 p.m. ET. The order was replaced on April 6 by Executive Order 20-18, which was in effect until April 20.

  • When does the order end?

    The Stay-At-Home Order was originally set to end on Monday, April 6, at 11:59 p.m. ET, but it has been extended twice and currently ends on Friday, May 1, at 11:59 p.m. ET. It could be extended if the outbreak warrants it.

  • Where does the order apply?

    The Stay-At-Home Order applies to the entire state of Indiana. Unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity, you must stay home.

  • Is this mandatory or a recommendation?

    This order is mandatory. For the safety of all Hoosiers, people must stay home and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

  • Is Executive Order 20-22 different from the previous order issued on April 6?

    Yes, the new Executive Order 20-22 changes some of the provisions of the second Stay-At-Home Order (Executive Order 20-18). In addition to extending the order through May 1, it provides additional clarity on outdoor activities, veterinary care and medically necessary procedures.

  • How can I tell what's been changed from the previous Stay-At-Home Order from April 6?

    Changes are shown in italics in the new Executive Order 20-22.

  • Can I travel to and stay at a campground in Indiana?

    No, all campgrounds located in Indiana are closed. People at campgrounds who resident in recreational vehicles (RVs) and cabins and have no other place of residence may remain at the campground.

  • How will this order be enforced?

    Staying home is critical to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in your community. Adhering to the order will save lives, and it is the responsibility of every Hoosier to do their part. However, if the order is not followed, the Indiana State Department of Health and the Enforcement Response Team created by executive order can take action against businesses.

    First, a verbal warning will be given. If the business fails to comply with the verbal warning, the Indiana State Department of Health may issue a cease-and-desist letter.

    If the business continues to operate, the Indiana State Department of Health can order the business to close. The business will be reported to the Secretary of State and to any relevant licensing, permitting or certifying board, commission or other entity. The business could lose its operating license or permit.

    Additionally, if an order to close a business is issued, a local prosecuting attorney may file charges for violating the executive order issued under Indiana's Emergency Disaster Law.

    Reports of suspected violations can be filed with IOSHA.

  • What is the penalty under Indiana's Emergency Disaster Law?

    A knowing violation of an executive order pursuant to Indiana's Emergency Disaster Law is a class B misdemeanor, punishable up to 180 days incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000.

  • Who will enforce the Stay-At-Home Order?

    The Indiana State Department of Health will work with the Indiana Alcohol & Tobacco Commission when issuing warnings, citations or orders to close non-essential businesses that remain open. Essential businesses can also face warnings, citations or orders to close for violations of social distancing and sanitation requirements.

  • What is an essential activity?

    Essential activities include activities needed for sustenance, necessities of life, health, education or employment, and as necessary to take care of others while applying social distancing requirements.

  • What businesses can be open to in-person, in-store shopping?

    Retail businesses that are providing the necessities of life may remain open to the public under the following conditions:

    • They must limit the number of customers in their facility at any given time to ensure customers remain at least 6 feet apart as required by the CDC's required social distancing guidelines.
    • They must limit hours of operation and should consider implementing separate operating hours for the elderly and vulnerable customers.
    • They must comply with social distancing and sanitation of applicable areas and other mitigation measures to protect employees and the public.

    Retail businesses that provide necessities of life include: grocery stores, supermarkets, supercenters or mass merchandizers (provided they have a sizable food/grocery section), specialty food stores, certified farmer’s markets, farm and produce stands, convenience stores and gas stations, pharmacies, auto sales, auto supply, auto maintenance and repair, farm equipment, construction equipment, bicycle shops, hardware and supply stores, office supply stores, club stores (i.e., Costco, Sam’s Club), building material and supplies stores (i.e., Lowe’s, Menards, Home Depot).

    All other retail businesses not providing the necessities of life, as described above, may remain open only under the following conditions:

    • Sales must be restricted to online or call-in ordering with delivery or curbside pickup.
    • Businesses must comply with social distancing and sanitation of applicable areas and other mitigation measures to protect its employees and the public.
  • I work for an essential business. Will I be allowed to travel to and from work?

    Yes. Law enforcement will not be stopping drivers on their way to and from work, traveling for an essential activity such as going to the grocery store, or just taking a walk.

  • Do I need a letter from my employer in order to drive to and from work?

    No, you do not need a letter from your employer.

  • I need to get my driver's license renewed and/or apply for a CDL license for work. Is the BMV open?

    Hoosiers can still complete various BMV transactions online through myBMV, by calling the contact center, or by returning items via USPS mail. Expiration dates on all state-issued licenses and registrations are extended. All late fees and credit card transactions fees are waived for 60 days from the implementation of Executive Order 20-05 on March 19.

    Nine Bureau of Motor Vehicles branches are open by appointment only to process new Commercial Learner's Permits (CLP), new Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL), and upgrade/downgrade for the CDL to add the tank vehicle or hazardous materials endorsement credential transactions. These branches are opening for appointments to support the current critical need to increase the number of new licensed commercial truck drivers on the road delivering supplies and to aid in the start of agricultural season in our state.

    More information is available at the BMV website.

  • Will the grocery store/pharmacy be open?

    Yes, grocery stores and pharmacies are essential services.

  • Can I still order takeout/delivery from restaurants and bars?

    Yes, restaurants and bars can continue to provide takeout and delivery, but should be closed to dine-in patrons.

  • Can I get online orders delivered?

    Yes, you can still receive packages, get groceries delivered and get meals delivered.

  • How can I get medical care?

    If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.

    If you suspect you have COVID-19, please call the healthcare provider in advance so that proper precautions can be taken to limit further transmission. Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild.

    If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face, contact your healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately, but please call in advance if possible. Your doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.

  • Can I see my dentist, optometrist or dermatologist?

    Non-essential medical care such as routine eye exams and teeth cleaning should be postponed. When possible, health care visits should be done remotely. Contact your health care provider to see what telehealth services they provide.

    Executive Order 20-24 allows resumption of elective and non-urgent medical procedures under certain conditions.

    Executive Order 20-22 states that "as long as sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), staff and other supplies are available so as not to detract from what is necessary and appropriate to properly care for and treat patients who have or may have COVID-19, hospitals should conduct clinically indicated procedures meant to diagnose, screen and treat medical conditions that have the potential for short-term or long-term morbidity and/or mortality. These include, but are not limited to, cardiac, vascular neurologic, cancer, gastrointestinal and respiratory procedures, as well as those procedures meant to reduce significant pain or symptoms making quality of life unacceptable.

    "Furthermore, in connection with health care providers, whether medical, dental or other, and health care facilities, whether hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, dental facilities, plastic surgery centers, dermatology offices, abortion clinics, or veterinary practices, any restrictions involving their medical procedures that have been imposed by an Executive Order will be re-evaluated for possible modifications, as warranted by the circumstances, that would allow for them to resume commencing as of 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2020. In addition, these restrictions on medical procedures will be re-evaluated every seven (7) days thereafter for any appropriate and timely modifications that could be implemented."

  • What is the guidance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

    State-operated developmental centers, intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities and community integrated living arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals in the home setting.

    If you have specific questions about your support and services, reach out to your provider or individual service coordination agency.

  • What if I still have to go to work?

    You should stay home unless your work is an essential function. If you have been designated essential by your employer, you should continue to go to work and practice social distancing.

  • What if I think my business should be closed, but it's still asking me to report to work?

    Essential businesses will remain open during the Stay-At-Home Order to provide services that are vital to the lives of Hoosiers. If you believe your business is nonessential but still are being asked to show up to work, you may discuss it with your employer.

    Business/employers must follow social distancing and sanitation requirements as outlined in the executive order and other safety measures established by the U.S. Department of Labor. Hoosiers concerned about their workplace safety can file a complaint with IOSHA online.

  • Do essential businesses have to take steps to protect their employees?

    Yes, essential businesses and operations shall comply with social distancing requirements established by the CDC, including maintaining 6-foot social distancing for both employees and members of the general public at all times, and must utilize or employ other CDC recommended sanitation measures such as washing hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer, covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands), regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and not shaking hands.

  • I cannot find my business on the essential business list. What do I do?

    If an employer has questions regarding the essential business designation, call the Critical Industries Hotline at 877-820-0890 or email covidresponse@iedc.in.gov.

  • If my unemployment has been interrupted or ended due to COVID-19, should I file for unemployment?

    Yes, you should file online by visiting unemployment.in.gov and your claim will be evaluated.

    Answers to frequently asked questions and instructions to file for COVID-19-related unemployment are available at unemployment.in.gov.

    Call volumes are extremely high, so you are encouraged use visit unemployment.in.gov first for guidance. If you don’t find the information you’re seeking on the website, reach the Indiana Department of Workforce Development unemployment contact center via the following methods:

    • Webchat: https://www.in.gov/dwd/webchat.htm
    • Email: AskUIContactCenter@dwd.in.gov
    • Phone: 800-891-6499

     

  • Will public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis continue?

    Public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis should only be used for essential travel.

  • Will roads in Indiana be closed?

    No, the roads will remain open. You should only travel if it is for your health or essential work.

  • Can I still take a plane out of Indiana?

    Planes and other types of transportation should be used for essential travel.

  • What if my home is not a safe environment?

    If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and encouraged to find another safe place to stay during this order. Please reach out so someone can help. You can call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or your local law enforcement.

  • What about homeless people who cannot stay at home?

    The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Hoosiers, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to ensure the homeless population has safe shelter.

  • Can I visit friends and family?

    For your safety, as well as the safety of all Hoosiers, you should remain at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19. You may visit family members who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate food supply.

  • Can I walk my dog or go to the veterinarian?

    You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. Practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets. Related: Pet grooming at a pet salon, store or mobile unit is permitted. Pet grooming businesses must operate within specific conditions to remain operational (see next question).

  • Is pet grooming an essential business?

    Executive Order 20-22 states, "Included in veterinary care that is referenced above and permitted under this Executive Order is pet grooming, which may occur at a pet salon or store, or by mobile unit; however, no pet grooming shall be provided to customers inside any home at this time."

    Pet grooming businesses may operate under specific conditions:

    Problem: Pet grooming was deemed non-essential in the State of Indiana on March 23, 2020. Without much argument most grooming establishments closed their doors. However, many remained open serving the public in whatever manner suited their business. Some have been reported, some closed, while others reopened. According to the State of Indiana, the COVID-19 virus could be spread via the pet's hair and groomers were told to close.

    The CDC statement is as follows: "Although we know certain bacteria and fungi can be carried on fur and hair, there is no evidence that viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, can spread to people from the skin, fur, or hair of pets. However, because animals can sometimes carry other germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals, including washing hands before and after interacting with them."

    Pet groomers from around the nation are having similar issues in their respective states. California, and some other states have deemed pet grooming essential.

    Groomers are the first line of defense for a pet's health. While not veterinarians, they detect lumps, bumps, ear infections, anal gland issues, and various other concerns many pet owners never see. Groomers see these pets 8–10 times per year on average and vets may only see them once or twice. It is a crucial business to the well-being of the nearly 190 million cats and dogs in the United States.

    Solution: While we feel pet grooming is essential, we recognize as an industry, that is it not the same as health care, food, and shelter essentials. However, there is a place and with reasonable protocol that groomers can safely abide by in order to return the nearly 1,400 groomers in the State of Indiana back to work. Many of which are self-employed and receiving little to no unemployment.

    Procedure: Salon Groomers

    Pet drop-off/pickup: While we recognize the validity of the efforts for curbside pickup/drop-off, it is a safety issue for the pets that we cannot execute. The American Kennel Club recommends that you have two stops between the pet and the outside. In some instances, this is unavoidable. Collecting a pet outside with the chance for it to run is not ideal nor safe.

    Pet groomers will communicate to their respective customers that only one customer (human) is allowed within their salons at any given time for drop-off/pickup or unless 6-feet social distancing measures can be taken and the floor marked with places to stand.

    Staggered grooming times can allow for the above policy to be effective.

    Leashes: Upon the customer entering, the groomer will address the customer wearing a mask. They will approach the animal with a slip lead provided by the employer that is of a nylon material capable of being disinfected. These leashes will only be used by the groomer. The groomer will leash the pet and the owner will remove their leash and collar and take with them upon leaving. Once the pet has been transferred to the groomer, they can step away from the customer maintaining social distancing to discuss the grooming.

    Pet groomer will take pet directly to the tub and bathe. In the event a tub is not available, the pet will be placed inside a kennel. Free-run salons must purchase kennels to house pets in. Once the pet is placed into the tub, the kennel will be immediately disinfected.

    Upon completion of the pet, the groomer will call the customer and take a credit card payment over the phone or on a credit card terminal within the salon that can then be disinfected after the customer leaves. Cash can be accepted per the World Health Organization (WHO).

    Hand sanitizer will be provided by the employer to be located at each checkout for the groomers to use to sanitize their hands before, during, and after interactions.

    Procedure: Mobile Grooming

    Groomer will meet customer at the home entrance wearing a mask. Groomer will place leash around the pet while the customer removes their leash and collar. Once complete, groomer may step away to the recommended 6 feet and discuss the grooming or return to their vehicle and call to discuss the grooming. At no time may the groomer enter the customer's home.

    Pet will be placed directly in the tub.

    Upon completion of the pet, the groomer will call the owner and take a credit card payment over the phone or on a credit card terminal at the door that can then be disinfected after use.

    Hand sanitizer will be provided by the employer to be in each mobile grooming van for the groomers to use to sanitize their hands before, during, and after interactions.

    Procedure: In-Home Grooming (Customer's Home)

    No in-home grooming will be done at this time for the safety of the customers and groomers.

    Employers are to provide adequate training for handwashing and disinfecting of tools, tables, kennels, tubs, customer areas, etc. Employers are to provide necessary disinfectant and PPE for groomers.

  • Can I go outside to exercise or visit a park?

    State parks remain open, but campgrounds, welcome centers, inns, cabins and other buildings are closed. Families can go outside and take a walk, run, ride a bike, go fishing or boating, but they should continue to practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from other people.

    Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing spreading the virus. Gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities are also closed to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

  • Can I attend a religious service?

    CDC guidance restricts gatherings, including religious services, to ten or less people to slow the spread of COVID-19. Religious leaders are encouraged to continue livestreaming services while practicing social distancing with one another.

    Gov. Holcomb's Executive Order 20-18 states, "All public and private gatherings, whether governmental, social, philanthropic, religious, spiritual or otherwise, of any number of people that occur outside of a single household or living unit, are prohibited unless such gathering is of ten (10) or less people who engage in social distancing and other sanitation measures. Any gathering of more than ten (10) people is hereby prohibited unless exempted by this Executive Order."

    Because of the extraordinary circumstances of our environment caused by the prevalence of the novel coronavirus, these restrictions do not violate the religious liberty of houses of worship. The government has a compelling interest for stopping the spread of this virus and these rules are the least restrictive means of allowing houses or worship to remain open for ministry.

    Guidance:

    • To slow the spread of coronavirus, we encourage church buildings and other physical locations for worship to be closed
    • Live-stream or other virtual services are best
      • The minimum number of necessary personnel should be used at all times for any services
      • Staff and volunteers who are not speaking should wear masks
    • Drive-in services may be conducted only under these conditions
      • Attendees must be inside vehicles at all times
      • Attendees should not interact physically with clergy, staff or participants in other vehicles
      • Vehicles should contain only members of a single household. Do not bring your neighbors or others outside of your household
      • Cars must be spaced the equivalent of every other parking spot or approximately 9 feet apart
      • No one may exit a vehicle at anytime
      • Portable bathrooms are not allowed on the premises and no church facilities may be used by attendees
      • It is preferred that no communion be distributed
        • In instances when communion is distributed, only prepackaged communion may be used and must be prepared and distributed in a manner that meets food safety standards
      • The following individuals who are vulnerable and at higher risk for illness should not attend:
        • Persons who are 65 years and older
        • Those who have severe underlying medical conditions, like heart or lung disease or diabetes
        • Individuals who are sick
    • Please note the CDC guidance for the faith community: Interim Guidance for Administrators and Leaders of Community- and Faith-Based Organizations to Plan, Prepare, and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
  • Can I attend a funeral service?

    CDC guidance restricts gatherings, including funeral services, to ten or less people to slow the spread of COVID-19. If there are fewer than ten people, social distancing of at least 6 feet away from other people must be followed.

  • Can I go to the hair salon, spa, nail salon, tattoo parlor or barber shop?

    No, these businesses are ordered closed.

  • Can I leave my home to do laundry?

    Yes, laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers are considered essential businesses.

  • Can I take my child to daycare?

    Yes, daycares are considered an essential business.

  • Can I pick up meals at my child’s school?

    Yes, schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pickup and take-home basis.

  • Can lawncare and landscaping services (nurseries and garden centers) remain open?

    Yes, per Executive Order 20-22, outdoor activity such as yard work, gardening, planting and landscaping at residential, commercial and industrial properties and farms may continue. Nurseries and garden centers' outdoor displays and in-store areas may be open for business so long as they:

    • (a) limit the number of customers in their facility at any given time to achieve the CDC's required social distancing;
    • (b) limit their hours of operation and consider implementing separate operating hours for the elderly and other vulnerable customers; and
    • (c) comply with social distancing and sanitation of applicable areas and other mitigation measures to protect their employees and the public.

     

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