Governor Stitt Orders Non-Essential Businesses To Close Amid Coronavirus Crisis

Governor Kevin Stitt is ignoring the requests of more than a dozen medical associations in the state. They were calling for a statewide shutdown and “shelter in place.” Instead, the governor is ordering all non-essential businesses in the 19-counties that have confirmed cases to close for 21-days. 

The governor described “non-essential” as businesses that are not socially driven, like bars and gyms.

He’s calling for a two-week suspension of elective surgical and dental procedures to conserve personal protective equipment like surgical masks and gloves.

The governor is ordering a statewide suspension of visitation for nursing homes.

And he is ordering a statewide “safer at home” policy for older Oklahomans and those with health issues that compromise their immune systems.

“I want to be clear with Oklahomans. I know this affects all four million Oklahomans,” Governor Stitt said. “I remain committed to making decisions based on reliable data, the emerging science and the advice of experts on my governor’s solutions task force on how to best apply social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19.”

Governor Stitt said while there are 109 confirmed cases in the state, he believes the numbers are closer to 500 and could get into the thousands.