Today, Governor Larry Hogan has taken his most aggressive measure yet to protect public safety and prevent COVID-19’s spread. Effective at 8:00 p.m., today, he has ordered everyone who resides in Maryland to remain at home.

There are some exceptions.

Maryland residents may leave their homes to conduct or participate in “Essential Activities”:

• Obtaining necessary supplies for themselves, and for their family, household members, pets, or livestock, including groceries, supplies for household consumption, or use. Such supplies also include items needed to work from home and products essential to maintain their residence and to keep them sanitary and safe.

• Engaging in activities essential for their health and safety and that of their family, household members, pets, or livestock, such as seeking medical or behavioral health or emergency services, and obtaining medication, or other medical supplies.

• Caring for family members, friends, pets, or livestock in another household or location, including transporting a family member, friend, pet, or livestock animal for essential health and safety activities and to obtain supplies and services.

• Traveling to and from an educational institution to obtain meals or instructional materials for distance learning.

• Exercising outdoors, such as walking, hiking, running, or biking, consistent with state and federal social distancing mandates and guidelines.

• Traveling required by a law enforcement officer or court order.

• And, necessary traveling to and from a federal, state, or local government building.

Residents who own or work in “Essential Businesses” may travel (1) between their homes and those businesses and organizations; and (2) to and from customers to deliver goods and perform services.

And, residents who own and work in “Non-essential Businesses” may travel (1) between their homes and those businesses to engage in minimal operations; and (2) to and from customers to deliver goods.

The Order shall remain in effect until the state of emergency ends. And, anyone who knowingly and willfully violates the Order shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and subject to imprisonment for up to one year, a fine up to $5,000, or both.