Alert - All Non-Essential Businesses in Delaware Must Close
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Beginning on March 24, 2020 at 8 a.m. EST, non-essential businesses in Delaware must close pursuant to a stay at home order issued by Governor Carney. Essential businesses permitted to stay open include the following: newspapers, radio and television companies; construction companies; agricultural; manufacturing; grocery stores, specialty food stores, and beer, wine and liquor stores; doctor’s offices and hospitals; air, rail, water and truck transportation.
03.23.20
On March 16, 2020, Delaware closed all casinos, bowling alleys, concert events, movie theaters, sports facilities, fitness centers and health spas. All Delaware restaurants, bars and taverns shall only provide food and beverage service through take-out, dine through or off premises delivery. Violators could be fined between $50 – $500 or imprisoned up to 6 months for each violation. A full list of essential and non-essential businesses can be found here.
All state court facilities in Delaware are closed to the public as of Monday, March 23, 2020 until at least April 15, 2020. Delaware federal courts including the District Court and Bankruptcy Court are open but are not conducting in person hearings, status conferences, trials or any other matters scheduled to be held in open court. All matters pending in Delaware federal courts that are not time sensitive are continued to a date to be determined on or after April 15, 2020.
Businesses listed as non-essential may appeal that status by submitting a written request via electronic mail to covid19faq@delaware.gov for consideration by the State of Delaware. A decision will be issued within one week of the appeal.
The Coronavirus Task Force at Klehr Harrison stands ready to assist you in your business and legal needs. We will continue to provide additional information and guidance as the COVID-19 situation develops.
Author Sally Veghte is an associate in the Bankruptcy & Restructuring Department at Klehr Harrison.