Georgia has made the decision to extend its satewide lockdown by four weeks, Gov. Brian Kemp announced on Wednesday, April 8. The measures are to ensure that the state is doing what it can to fight the rise of coronavirus cases.
Update: Georgia Lockdown Lifted
The Peach State has been under a statewide shelter-in-place order that was to end on April 13, but that’s no longer the case.
It now extends to April 30, 2020. State and local observers are wondering if Kemp will allow it to expire, especially since he has re-opened Georgia businesses.
Georgia Extends State Of Emergency Until…
In extending the order, Kemp was joined by Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan and House Speaker David Ralston.
“To ensure the health and well-being of Georgians, I will extend the public health state of emergency through May 13, 2020,” Kemp said in a written statement. “This measure will allow us to continue to deploy resources to communities in need, lend support to frontline medical providers, and keep preparing as we brace for potential patient surge in our healthcare facilities.”
He added: “We deeply appreciate the hard work of Georgians who are sheltering in place, using social distancing, and helping us flatten the curve. We are in this fight together.”
The move comes as Atlanta was selected as a drive-through testing site for COVID-19 cases. The testing site, a partnership between the state, CVS and Georgia Tech, has seen long lines of cars as people wait to get tested for coronavirus.
The actual test only takes less than 30 minutes, according to people who have endured the process.
Kemp’s original order has been met with criticism because of the appearance of a lax attitude toward the order from Georgia officials. For instance, Georgia reopened the beaches shortly after issuing the statewide emergency.
You can go to any of these places as long as you practice social distancing.
Next: Where To Get Tested For Coronavirus In Atlanta
Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links: