Guidance for Food Supply Chain During “Stay at Home” Order

Governor Larry Hogan has issued an executive order requiring Marylanders to “Stay at Home,” effective 8 p.m  March 30, 2020. As the state moves into the next phase of its efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, essential industries are encouraged to continue operations while implementing best practices designed to protect employees, customers and the general public.

Agriculture and food-related businesses remain essential, however individual companies are asked to make an honest assessment as to whether their operation is essential to public health and safety. Businesses that are not directly linked to public health and safety should immediately scale back their operations, eliminate foot traffic, end curbside pick-up and move to delivery only. Any workers that are able to do their job from home should do so immediately and continue until the governor lifts the current order.

Essential workers may continue to travel to and from work as needed. It is recommended that employers draft and print letters for employees to carry when travelling. The letter should include:

• Name and address of the employee
• Name and address of the business
• Nature of the employee’s essential work
• Signature and contact information for the employer

For official updates on the state’s response to COVID-19, please visit governor.maryland.gov/coronavirus/. A full list of current executive orders and interpretive guidance is available at: governor.maryland.gov/covid-19-pandemic-orders-and-guidance/.