Stay-home order: What you need to know

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office has clarified several points of Gov. Brad Little’s amended statewide stay-home order, which is in effect through April 30.

Idaho statue gives the Governor, through the Director of Public Health, the authority to issue the order.

In cooperation with other public agencies and health entities, the Sheriff’s Office gave recommendations to the Governor’s Office preceding yesterday’s amendment. The Governor has the final say and the Sheriff’s Office does not have the authority to usurp the Governor’s order.

Under the amended order, some businesses that were previously deemed nonessential can open for business if they can offer curbside services, drive-in, drive-thru pickup, mailed services or delivery services.

Businesses such as indoor gyms, recreational facilities, nightclubs, bars, entertainment venues, convention centers, hair and nail salons, public events and gatherings, dine-in restaurants (drive through, carry-out, delivery to continue) and other facilities and services not included in “essential” business as defined in the order must remain closed.

Non-residents must self-quarantine in Idaho for 14 days after entering the state. This does not apply to those performing essential services or those who live in one state and work or gain essential services in another state.

The Sheriff’s Office will enforce this primarily through education. However, per Idaho Code 56-1003(7)(c), an individual that fails to comply with the order and not heed a verbal warning may be cited or arrested for the misdemeanor violation.

For more information on the Governor’s order, visit coronavirus.idaho.gov.