Kemp Extends COVID-19 Orders As Cases Fall In Georgia

Georgia’s governor is extending the two main executive orders that govern Georgia’s response to COVID-19.

Gov. Brian Kemp on Monday signed a 15-day extension of the order that mandates requirements on social distancing, bans on gatherings of more than 50 people unless there is six feet between each person and lists other rules about operating businesses and nonprofit groups. Those who live in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, as well as people deemed medically fragile, must continue to shelter in place through Sept. 15.

The Republican Kemp also extended the underlying state of emergency, which gives him powers to make other orders, through Oct. 10. Lawmakers in March, when they approved Kemp declaring a public health state of emergency, agreed to let him extend the authority as the governor saw necessary.