UPDATED: Gov. Baker Says ‘Stay-At-Home’

BOSTON – Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker told residents to “stay-at-home” today, March 23, and issued an order to close all non-essential business as of Tuesday, March 24 Until April 7.

Gov. Baker said “everyone is advised to stay home.”

“He asked for everyone to use their “common sense” and “limit interactions with other people.”

Residents can use essential services when needed, like supermarkets and pharmacies.

For a list of essential businesses click here.

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The Governor said local governments will be responsible for enforcing this new order. There are fines if businesses do not comply.

The Baker-Polito Administration Order also limits gatherings to 10 people during the state of emergency, a reduction from the 25 person limit established in an earlier order. 

Businesses that remain open should still practice social distancing.

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Gov. Baker said he spoke to two empty houses of worship this weekend.

“I sense a loss of purpose. Many feel this loss and I can see why,” said Gov. Baker. “We all have a role and we all have a purpose as we battle this disease. … Limiting social contact is profoundly purposeful.”