Special Report
Every State's Rules for Staying at Home and Social Distancing
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Last Updated:
Even though states have started to lift stay-at-home orders and allow nonessential businesses to reopen as the spread of the novel coronavirus has slowed in certain parts of the country, restrictions on nonessential travel are still in place in every state. COVID-19 has so far killed more than 75,000 people in the U.S. as of May 7. More than 1.2 million people nationwide have tested positive.
To slow the spread of the coronavirus and save lives by keeping the local health care systems from being overwhelmed, each state has implemented its own set of rules — at different times and at varying limitations. In some states, sheltering in place and wearing face coverings is the law, while in others they are a recommendation.
To determine each state’s social distancing measures and restrictions on movement, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed executive orders from governors since the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in the United States at the end of January.
A minority of people, albeit a very vocal one, have started protesting the orders. They are pressing for an end to the restrictions even though the numbers of confirmed cases and deaths related to the coronavirus in the United States continue to grow. Here are the states where COVID-19 is spreading the fastest right now.
Click here to see every states rules for staying at home and social distancing
Click here to read our methodology
Alabama
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 178 per 100,000 — 22nd lowest (total: 8,699)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 07 per 100,000 — 25th lowest (total: 347)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,308 per 100,000 — 16th highest (total: 112,803)
> Days between first case on 3/13/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/4/2020): 22
> Population: 4,887,871
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. A new safer-at-home policy is in effect. Some businesses such as retail stores have been allowed to reopen at 50% capacity, but they still have to follow social distancing guidelines. Elective medical procedures, too, have resumed. Beaches are now open but no groups of more than 10 people can gather. Alabama schools are closed for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year.
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Alaska
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 50 per 100,000 — 3rd lowest (total: 372)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 1 per 100,000 — 3rd lowest (total: 10)
> Tests as of May 7: 3,208 per 100,000 — 9th highest (total: 23,655)
> Days between first case on 3/12/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/28/2020): 16
> Population: 737,438
The stay-at-home order expired on April 21. The state government allowed nonessential businesses to reopen for regular business hours. Restrictions vary by sector. For example, there can be no waiting lines in places providing personal services like hair salons. Restaurants are now open for dining but can’t have more than 20 tables and they have to be at least 10 feet apart.
Arizona
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 135 per 100,000 — 14th lowest (total: 9,707)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 6 per 100,000 — 18th lowest (total: 426)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,445 per 100,000 — 16th lowest (total: 103,597)
> Days between first case on 1/26/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/31/2020): 65
> Population: 7,171,646
The stay-at-home order has been extended in a modified form until May 15. Elective medical procedures have been allowed to resume since May 1 with restrictions. K-12 schools are closed for the rest of the school year. Some nonessential businesses opened on May 4 but only for delivery services. In-store sales will be allowed to resume on May 8. Restaurants can open for dine-in on May 10.
Arkansas
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 120 per 100,000 — 10th lowest (total: 3,611)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 03 per 100,000 — 8th lowest (total: 87)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,991 per 100,000 — 22nd highest (total: 59,995)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 3,013,825
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order but nonessential businesses were closed. A phased reopening plan has been put in place. Hair and nail salons and other personal care establishments have been allowed to reopen since May 6. Gym and state parks are now allowed to reopen. Restaurants will be opening for dining in on May 11 but may only seat a third of their total capacity.
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California
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 153 per 100,000 — 19th lowest (total: 60,635)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 6 per 100,000 — 20th lowest (total: 2,462)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 1/25/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/19/2020): 54
> Population: 39,557,045
A stay-at-home order is still in effect, though some restrictions are being lifted. Small businesses can reopen for curbside pickup on May 8. Businesses will have to follow social distancing guidelines and employees will have to wear protective gear. Shopping centers, malls, and strip malls will not be allowed to reopen soon. Some beaches in Orange County have been allowed to open.
Colorado
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 313 per 100,000 — 16th highest (total: 17,830)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 16 per 100,000 — 13th highest (total: 921)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,572 per 100,000 — 19th lowest (total: 89,529)
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/26/2020): 21
> Population: 5,695,564
The stay-at-home order expired April 26. A phased opening of the economy started on April 27. The state entered a safer-at-home phase, where residents are recommended to stay home but not required to by law. Grocery stores, firearm stores, marijuana dispensaries, and gas stations are open. Retail businesses reopened with curbside pickup. Offices can reopen with 50% of the workforce. Salons and other places offering personal services can also reopen if implementing best practices — everyone has to wear masks and gloves, customers have to wait outside, and places where people sit have to be sanitized frequently.
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Connecticut
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 868 per 100,000 — 5th highest (total: 30,995)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 76 per 100,000 — 3rd highest (total: 2,718)
> Tests as of May 7: 3,119 per 100,000 — 11th highest (total: 111,447)
> Days between first case on 3/8/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 15
> Population: 3,572,665
The stay-at-home order is in effect until May 20. Grocery stores operate at half capacity. Safe-stores guidelines are mandated with every other register line out of service. A 6-foot minimum distance is required outdoors. Parking capacity is limited at certain parks and walk-ins are banned to limit the number of visitors. Restaurants are still open for delivery or takeout.
Delaware
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 597 per 100,000 — 7th highest (total: 5,778)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 20 per 100,000 — 11th highest (total: 193)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 13
> Population: 967,171
The stay-at-home order is in effect until May 15 or until the health threat is eliminated. When out, people must maintain at least a 6-foot distance from each other. All beaches are closed except for people exercising or walking their dogs. People can still go out to get groceries, exercise, take care of others, and other essential activities. All visitors older than 13 must wear masks when inside state parks, wildfire areas, and reserves.
Florida
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 178 per 100,000 — 23rd lowest (total: 38,002)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 7 per 100,000 — 25th highest (total: 1,539)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,263 per 100,000 — 17th highest (total: 482,005)
> Days between first case on 3/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/3/2020): 33
> Population: 21,299,325
The stay-at-home order expired on May 4, but social distancing guidelines are in place at least until mid-May. Beaches reopened for essential activities in parts of the state on April 17. Retail stores and restaurants — except in the most populous counties of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach — are now allowed to reopen, but at 25% capacity. Senior citizens and individuals with significant underlying medical conditions must stay at home.
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Georgia
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 298 per 100,000 — 17th highest (total: 31,356)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 13 per 100,000 — 15th highest (total: 1,336)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,066 per 100,000 — 21st highest (total: 217,303)
> Days between first case on 3/2/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/3/2020): 32
> Population: 10,519,475
The shelter-in-place order expired on April 30. Some businesses, including gyms and hair salons, were allowed to reopen (even though many opted to remain closed), as were elective surgeries resumed beginning April 24. Child care facilities are open but take no more than 10 people, including teachers. Places of entertainment such as bowling alleys, theaters, and private social clubs are allowed to open as well.
Hawaii
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 44 per 100,000 — 2nd lowest (total: 626)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 1 per 100,000 — the lowest (total: 17)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/25/2020): 19
> Population: 1,420,491
People must quarantine themselves for two weeks if traveling between islands or risk fines up to $5,000 and a year in prison. Only people seeking medical attention may leave their quarantine zones, the location residents have specified to be their quarantine zone on the mandatory State of Hawaii Department of Agriculture Plants and Animals Declaration Form. Stay-at-home, work-at-home orders are in effect until May 31. The state government will be taking a phased-in approach to reopening the economy. Schools are closed through the rest of the school year.
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Idaho
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 113 per 100,000 — 9th lowest (total: 1,986)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 4 per 100,000 — 12th lowest (total: 66)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,751 per 100,000 — 25th lowest (total: 30,718)
> Days between first case on 3/13/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/25/2020): 12
> Population: 1,754,208
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. The first stage of the reopening plan started with places of worship and certain nonessential businesses being allowed to reopen if they adhere to strict social distancing. The 14-day self-quarantine for people entering Idaho continues through the month of May. People are encouraged to wear masks when in public and work from home whenever possible. Nonessential travel is now allowed. The second phase of reopening will start on May 16.
Illinois
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 536 per 100,000 — 8th highest (total: 68,232)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 23 per 100,000 — 9th highest (total: 2,974)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,835 per 100,000 — 14th highest (total: 361,260)
> Days between first case on 1/24/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/21/2020): 57
> Population: 12,741,080
A shelter-in-place order is in effect at least through May 30. Some restrictions were loosened starting May 1, including resumption of elective surgeries, golfing, allowing nurseries and garden centers to reopen. State parks start a phased reopening. Fishing and boating is now allowed but in groups of no more than two people. Nonessential stores can reopen for online orders through pickup. People are required to wear masks or other types of face covering when outside.
Indiana
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 336 per 100,000 — 14th highest (total: 22,503)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 19 per 100,000 — 12th highest (total: 1,295)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,865 per 100,000 — 25th highest (total: 124,782)
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 18
> Population: 6,691,878
The stay-at-home order expired on May 4. All but three counties — Marion, Lake, and Cass — have been allowed to start reopening. Retail stores, public libraries, and offices have opened. Gyms and fitness centers are closed, but exercising outdoors is permitted as long as people maintain 6-foot physical distancing. Some businesses, like dentists, greenhouses, nurseries, and pet groomers, are allowed to reopen with restrictions. Retail stores can open at half capacity. Restaurants may open after May 11 at half capacity as well.
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Iowa
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 350 per 100,000 — 13th highest (total: 11,059)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 7 per 100,000 — 24th highest (total: 231)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,105 per 100,000 — 20th highest (total: 66,427)
> Days between first case on 3/8/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 3,156,145
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order. Anyone who refuses to limit social gatherings could face misdemeanor charges. Schools are closed through the rest of the school year. Businesses and churches in 77 of Iowa’s 99 counties are allowed to reopen. Restaurants, fitness centers, retail stores, and malls can reopen at 50% capacity in mostly rural countries. The ban on elective surgeries was lifted on April 27. The changes do not apply to the state’s most populous areas.
Kansas
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 197 per 100,000 — 24th highest (total: 5,734)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 5 per 100,000 — 17th lowest (total: 144)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 23
> Population: 2,911,510
The temporary statewide stay-home order expired on May 3. A phased reopening began on May 4. Restaurants can open if they maintain social distancing and limit crowds to no more than 10. Bars, hair salons, gyms, museums, and theaters will stay closed. Organized sports, community swimming pools, festivals, parades, and graduation ceremonies are not allowed.
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Kentucky
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 133 per 100,000 — 13th lowest (total: 5,934)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 6 per 100,000 — 22nd lowest (total: 283)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/26/2020): 20
> Population: 4,468,402
A stay-at-home order is in effect until further notice. Travel from Kentucky to other states is limited. Residents can leave the state only to care for loved ones, see a doctor, go to work, if they have a court order, or to get groceries. If people leave for other reasons, they have to self-quarantine for 14 days. Phase one of the state’s gradual reopening started on April 27, when nonessential medical services were allowed to resume with restrictions.
Louisiana
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 652 per 100,000 — 6th highest (total: 30,399)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 45 per 100,000 — 5th highest (total: 2,094)
> Tests as of May 7: 4,178 per 100,000 — 5th highest (total: 194,672)
> Days between first case on 3/9/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 14
> Population: 4,659,978
An order directing all Louisiana residents to shelter at home and limit movements outside beyond essential needs is in effect until May 15. Everyone in Louisiana should wear masks when in public. Residents can only work from home unless they are providing essential services. Nonessential businesses are closed to the public. Banks, gas stations, and veterinary services are open. Outdoor exercise is allowed as long as people maintain 6-foot physical distancing. Playgrounds are closed.
Maine
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 92 per 100,000 — 7th lowest (total: 1,231)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 5 per 100,000 — 15th lowest (total: 62)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/12/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/2/2020): 21
> Population: 1,338,404
The stay-at-home order is set to expire on May 31. An executive order requiring travelers to the state to self-quarantine for 14 days is in effect at least until then as well. Residents can visit businesses such as hair salons and barbershops and participate in activities under stage 1 of the reopening, which started May 1. Drive-in movies, stay-in-your-vehicle religious services, and golf are allowed. Another phase of reopening is scheduled for June, when restaurants, fitness centers, and retail stores may be allowed to reopen.
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Maryland
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 486 per 100,000 — 9th highest (total: 29,374)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 23 per 100,000 — 10th highest (total: 1,401)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 25
> Population: 6,042,718
A stay-at-home order is in effect indefinitely. An executive order is in effect to wear face coverings in any retail business or on public transportation. Breaking the rules can result in fines or jail time. People can hunt, fish, and crab for food, but follow social distancing guidelines. Public beaches have been allowed to open for exercise, but social distancing must be followed. Boating is permitted, but no more than 10 people can be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew. Shooting ranges are allowed to open.
Massachusetts
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 1,044 per 100,000 — 3rd highest (total: 72,025)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 64 per 100,000 — 4th highest (total: 4,420)
> Tests as of May 7: 4,921 per 100,000 — 4th highest (total: 339,639)
> Days between first case on 2/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 52
> Population: 6,902,149
The stay-at-home order and an order for nonessential businesses and organizations for in-person operations to remain closed have been extended until May 18. Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited. Medical marijuana shops are still open, but recreational marijuana shops are closed. Schools are closed through the rest of the school year, and day care centers are closed until the end of June.
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Michigan
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 451 per 100,000 — 10th highest (total: 45,054)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 43 per 100,000 — 6th highest (total: 4,250)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/10/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 14
> Population: 9,995,915
Residents can be criminally penalized for breaking social distancing rules. The stay-at-home order has been extended and is in effect at least until May 15. Restrictions on activities such as boating and golfing have been eased. Big retailers are now allowed to resume selling nonessential items in stores. Bars, gyms, casinos, and theaters remain closed. Restaurants can do delivery or takeout service through May 28.
Minnesota
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 167 per 100,000 — 20th lowest (total: 9,365)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 9 per 100,000 — 19th highest (total: 508)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,736 per 100,000 — 24th lowest (total: 97,421)
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/27/2020): 21
> Population: 5,611,179
The stay-at-home order was extended until May 18. People can still leave their homes to pick up essential items such as groceries or food, prescriptions, and gas, to relocate for safety reasons, or go to work if their job is deemed essential. Some recreational activities, including golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, and hiking have been allowed to resume since April 18. Nonessential retail businesses can start offering curbside pickup and delivery services.
Mississippi
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 291 per 100,000 — 18th highest (total: 8,686)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 13 per 100,000 — 14th highest (total: 396)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,689 per 100,000 — 15th highest (total: 80,308)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/3/2020): 23
> Population: 2,986,530
The shelter-in-place order expired on April 27. Only medically vulnerable people are required to stay home. Some nonessential businesses like florists and clothing stores are allowed to deliver or offer curbside pickup. Retail businesses can reopen at no more than 50% of their store capacity. Places that cannot avoid sustained person-to-person contact, such as theme parks, salons, or gyms, are to remain closed. Restaurants will be allowed to open starting May 7 at no more than 50% seating capacity in indoor and outdoor dining areas. Bars that don’t serve food must remain closed.
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Missouri
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 149 per 100,000 — 17th lowest (total: 9,102)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 6 per 100,000 — 24th lowest (total: 396)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,691 per 100,000 — 23rd lowest (total: 103,622)
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/6/2020): 30
> Population: 6,126,452
The stay-at-home order expired on May 3. All businesses may reopen but follow social distancing guidelines. Restaurants, manufacturing plants, gyms and hair salons, and churches can resume activities. Sporting events and social gatherings can resume, though local governments can impose stricter limitations. Kansas City’s stay-at-home order is scheduled to continue through May 15. Large venues, concerts, and movie theaters are allowed to resume activities, but the seating has to be spaced out to comply with social distancing guidelines.
Montana
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 43 per 100,000 — the lowest (total: 456)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 2 per 100,000 — 4th lowest (total: 16)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,906 per 100,000 — 24th highest (total: 20,247)
> Days between first case on 3/13/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/28/2020): 15
> Population: 1,062,305
The shelter-in-place order expired April 26. A phased reopening started on April 27. Churches resumed Sunday services, and retailers reopened with social distancing guidelines in place. Restaurants and bars were allowed to reopen in some form beginning May 4. Schools have the option to reopen starting May 7. Travel quarantine remains in effect, and people arriving from another state or country for non-work related purposes must quarantine for 14 days.
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Nebraska
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 351 per 100,000 — 12th highest (total: 6,771)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 4 per 100,000 — 14th lowest (total: 86)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,961 per 100,000 — 23rd highest (total: 37,829)
> Days between first case on 2/17/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 1,929,268
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order, but gatherings of more than 10 people have been prohibited. In-person church services may resume with some limitations. Hair salons and restaurants can open in certain regions and at 50% capacity. All dining parties are restricted to no more than six people. Child care facilities can now open and have up to 15 children per room (or 10 children in certain districts).
Nevada
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 189 per 100,000 — 25th highest (total: 5,744)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 9 per 100,000 — 18th highest (total: 286)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,625 per 100,000 — 21st lowest (total: 49,294)
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/1/2020): 27
> Population: 3,034,392
A stay-at-home order, which also extends closure of nonessential businesses, gaming, and schools, is in effect through May 15. Nevadans must not leave their homes for nonessential activities. Nonessential businesses are closed, and bans on public gatherings of 10 or more people are in effect. All outdoor activities are allowed as long as people maintain 6-foot physical distancing. Some restrictions have been loosened. Retail stores, including cannabis outlets, can now offer curbside service. Places of worship can offer drive-thru service.
New Hampshire
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 202 per 100,000 — 23rd highest (total: 2,740)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 8 per 100,000 — 22nd highest (total: 111)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/2/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/27/2020): 25
> Population: 1,356,458
An amended stay-at-home order is an effect until May 31. People can go out but must maintain at least 6 feet of social distance, use proper hand hygiene, and wear a mask whenever possible. Elective medical procedures have resumed. There is a temporary prohibition on scheduled gatherings of 10 or more attendees. Seacoast beaches remain closed. State parks are open but require reservations in some areas. Golf courses (but no clubhouses), barbers and hair salons (but with reservations only), retail stores (at 50% capacity), and drive-in movie theaters can reopen with some restrictions. Restaurants can open for outdoor food services starting May 18.
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New Jersey
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 1,480 per 100,000 — 2nd highest (total: 131,890)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 96 per 100,000 — 2nd highest (total: 8,549)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/4/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/21/2020): 17
> Population: 8,908,520
A stay-at-home order is in effect indefinitely. nonessential businesses, including casinos, are closed. Child care centers are closed except for the children of essential workers. Restaurants and bars are closed except for takeout or delivery. Grocery stores, medical marijuana dispensaries, gas stations, and convenience stores are among the retail businesses that can stay open. State and county parks are closed.
New Mexico
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 205 per 100,000 — 22nd highest (total: 4,291)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 8 per 100,000 — 23rd highest (total: 169)
> Tests as of May 7: 4,089 per 100,000 — 7th highest (total: 85,684)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 13
> Population: 2,095,428
A stay-at-home order is in effect through May 15 at least. Getting outdoors is allowed if social distancing rules are followed. Gatherings of more than five people are not allowed. State parks remain closed. People traveling to the state must self-isolate. Schools are closed throughout the remainder of the school year. Restaurants and dine-in outlets may provide only curbside and delivery service. Grocery stores and other essential retail services may open at 20% of their maximum capacity.
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New York
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 1,658 per 100,000 — the highest (total: 323,978)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 105 per 100,000 — the highest (total: 20,597)
> Tests as of May 7: 5,403 per 100,000 — 2nd highest (total: 1,055,921)
> Days between first case on 3/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/22/2020): 21
> Population: 19,542,209
A stay-at-home order is in effect until May 15. The governor will extend it in some counties. Fines for breaking social distancing measures were raised to $1,000. Residents must stay at home except to get essential services, and then they must stay at least 6 feet apart. All nonessential businesses are closed. Schools are closed at least until May 15, but schools in NYC are closed throughout the rest of the school year. Restaurants can only serve food or beverage for off-premises consumption until further notice.
North Carolina
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 129 per 100,000 — 12th lowest (total: 13,397)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 5 per 100,000 — 16th lowest (total: 507)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,650 per 100,000 — 22nd lowest (total: 171,328)
> Days between first case on 3/3/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 27
> Population: 10,383,620
The stay-at-home order, which also prevents gatherings of more than 10 people, is in effect until at least May 8. A phased reopening of the economy will begin after that. When outside, people have to wear masks, wash their hands, and stay 6 feet apart. Retail businesses can open at 50% capacity. People can leave their homes to go to any business that is allowed to open. Bars, personal care businesses, gyms, restaurants, and movie theaters remain closed. Working from home is strongly encouraged. Summer day camps can open.
North Dakota
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 180 per 100,000 — 24th lowest (total: 1,371)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 4 per 100,000 — 13th lowest (total: 31)
> Tests as of May 7: 5,377 per 100,000 — 3rd highest (total: 40,867)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 760,077
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order. The order for all nonessential businesses to be closed ended on April 30. Some businesses, including movie theaters, gyms, salons, tattoo parlors, bars, and restaurants are allowed to open, but safety measures such as daily disinfection and limits on the number of customers remain in place.
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Ohio
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 185 per 100,000 — 25th lowest (total: 21,576)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 10 per 100,000 — 17th highest (total: 1,225)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/9/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 14
> Population: 11,689,442
The stay-at-home order has been extended until May 29, but some businesses have been allowed to reopen after May 1. Health procedures that do not require an overnight stay in the hospital may resume as well as dental and veterinary services. Movie theaters, gyms, and restaurants are allowed to reopen. Beginning on May 4, manufacturing, distribution, and construction businesses have been allowed to resume. Retail stores can reopen May 12. Face coverings will be required.
Oklahoma
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 107 per 100,000 — 8th lowest (total: 4,201)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 6 per 100,000 — 23rd lowest (total: 253)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (): No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 3,943,079
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order except for older people and those who have certain preexisting conditions. Previously suspended elective surgeries were allowed to resume after April 24. Restrictions on salons, barbers, and pet groomers were also lifted. Restaurant dining, movie theaters, gyms, houses of worship, and sporting venues have been allowed to reopen with certain restrictions since May 1 and adhere to strict social distancing and sanitation protocols.
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Oregon
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 69 per 100,000 — 4th lowest (total: 2,887)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 03 per 100,000 — 6th lowest (total: 115)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,621 per 100,000 — 20th lowest (total: 67,947)
> Days between first case on 2/28/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 24
> Population: 4,190,713
A stay-at-home order is in effect until further notice. Gatherings of more than 25 people are banned. Nonessential social and recreational gatherings are allowed if people keep a distance of at least 6 feet. People violating the order are subject to penalties. All pools, skate parks, outdoor courts, and playgrounds are closed. Nonurgent medical procedures were allowed to restart on May 1.
Pennsylvania
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 413 per 100,000 — 11th highest (total: 52,915)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 27 per 100,000 — 8th highest (total: 3,416)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/1/2020): 26
> Population: 12,807,060
A stay-at-home order in effect until May 8. Trout fishing season is open as long as people follow social distancing guidelines. Outdoor exercise is allowed as long as people maintain 6-foot distancing. Construction work resumed on May 1. Some outdoor recreational activities were allowed to reopen on May 1. The governor is expected to lift the stay-at-home order after it expires and ease other restrictions in the least-impacted parts of the state.
Rhode Island
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 996 per 100,000 — 4th highest (total: 10,530)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 37 per 100,000 — 7th highest (total: 388)
> Tests as of May 7: 7,786 per 100,000 — the highest (total: 82,318)
> Days between first case on 3/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/28/2020): 27
> Population: 1,057,315
The stay-at-home order was extended until May 8, and it’s not expected to be extended further. Quarantine restrictions on people returning to Rhode Island from other states and those returning by air are in place. People can go out to go to work, if they need to travel for medical treatment, or to obtain necessities. Gatherings of more than five people are banned. All noncritical retail businesses are closed.
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South Carolina
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 136 per 100,000 — 15th lowest (total: 6,936)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 6 per 100,000 — 19th lowest (total: 305)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,524 per 100,000 — 17th lowest (total: 77,482)
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/6/2020): 31
> Population: 5,084,127
The stay-at-home expired on May 4. Orders for out-of-state visitors to quarantine have also expired. Public beaches, piers, and docks can remain open, though many have not. Nonessential businesses such as flea markets, department stores, and boutiques may reopen. Retail stores are under instructions to operate at 20% capacity. Restaurants can open for outdoor dining. Residents are encouraged to work from home but are no longer required by law.
South Dakota
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 315 per 100,000 — 15th highest (total: 2,779)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 3 per 100,000 — 9th lowest (total: 29)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,201 per 100,000 — 18th highest (total: 19,416)
> Days between first case on 3/10/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 882,235
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order. People are encouraged to stay at home and not gather in groups of 10 or more. Any enclosed businesses should offer alternative services to comply with CDC guidance. When outside, people must be at least 6 feet apart. Businesses will be allowed to reopen if the surrounding area has reported a downward trend in cases for two weeks.
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Tennessee
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 206 per 100,000 — 21st highest (total: 13,938)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 4 per 100,000 — 11th lowest (total: 239)
> Tests as of May 7: 3,355 per 100,000 — 8th highest (total: 227,101)
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/31/2020): 26
> Population: 6,770,010
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. A safer-at-home order is now in effect until May 29. Many businesses were allowed to open. Restaurants have been allowed to offer in-person, but limited, capacity dining. Other close contact businesses such as barbershops, salons, and massage and tattoo parlors remain closed. State parks reopened April 24. The most populated areas of the state will decide when to reopen on their own.
Texas
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 120 per 100,000 — 11th lowest (total: 34,422)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 3 per 100,000 — 10th lowest (total: 948)
> Tests as of May 7: 1,529 per 100,000 — 18th lowest (total: 438,938)
> Days between first case on 2/12/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/2/2020): 50
> Population: 28,701,845
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. State parks started reopening on April 20, and some stores can start offering retail-to-go on April 24. Face coverings are still required. Restaurants, retailers, movie theaters, malls, and other businesses have been allowed to reopen at 25% capacity. In rural counties with five or fewer confirmed cases, retailers can serve up to 50% of their regular capacity. Bars that don’t serve food remain closed. Barbershops, hair salons, bars, and gyms may be able to open as early as May 18.
Utah
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 177 per 100,000 — 21st lowest (total: 5,595)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 2 per 100,000 — 5th lowest (total: 58)
> Tests as of May 7: 4,144 per 100,000 — 6th highest (total: 131,002)
> Days between first case on 2/25/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 3,161,105
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order. A stay-safe-stay-home directive expired on May 1. In-restaurant dining, gyms, and salons can now open. Gatherings of up to 20 people are allowed. Statewide restrictions on elective surgeries and procedures were lifted as of April 21. Schools will remain closed for the rest of the academic year.
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Vermont
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 146 per 100,000 — 16th lowest (total: 916)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 8 per 100,000 — 21st highest (total: 53)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,946 per 100,000 — 13th highest (total: 18,451)
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 17
> Population: 626,299
A stay home, stay safe order is in effect until at least May 15. Schools are closed through the rest of the academic year. Residents can only leave their homes for essential reasons such as personal safety, groceries or medicine, curbside pickup of goods, and a few other reasons. Everyone has to work remotely when possible. Some low-contact businesses were allowed to open after April 20 with a two-person staff.
Virginia
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 241 per 100,000 — 19th highest (total: 20,537)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 9 per 100,000 — 20th highest (total: 745)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 23
> Population: 8,517,685
A stay-at-home order is in effect until June 10. It’s unlawful to gather in groups of 10 or more people. Those violating social distancing rules can be charged with a misdemeanor, which carries the possibility of jail time up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500. Nonessential businesses are closed at least until May 8. Beaches are closed statewide except for fishing and exercise. All K-12 schools are closed through the rest of the school year.
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Washington
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 211 per 100,000 — 20th highest (total: 15,905)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 12 per 100,000 — 16th highest (total: 870)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,983 per 100,000 — 12th highest (total: 224,813)
> Days between first case on 1/21/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 62
> Population: 7,535,591
A stay-at-home order is in effect until May 31. The order is expected to be completely lifted by July 12. People can still go on bike rides, garden, and walk the dogs, as long as they follow social distancing rules. Sports courts and playgrounds are closed. After May 15, more retail businesses will be allowed to do curbside pickup. Vehicle sales, car washes, landscaping, house cleaning, and drive-in church services may be allowed after May 15 if they follow social distancing protocols.
West Virginia
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 71 per 100,000 — 5th lowest (total: 1,287)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 3 per 100,000 — 7th lowest (total: 51)
> Tests as of May 7: 3,185 per 100,000 — 10th highest (total: 57,521)
> Days between first case on 3/17/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 7
> Population: 1,805,832
The stay-at-home order expired on May 3. A safer-at-home order is now in effect. Residents are encouraged to stay inside but not required. Restaurants may open for outdoor dining. Personal service businesses can also open but with appointments and customers waiting outside. Elective medical procedures resumed April 28. Church and funeral services can resume.
Wisconsin
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 153 per 100,000 — 18th lowest (total: 8,901)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 6 per 100,000 — 21st lowest (total: 362)
> Tests as of May 7: N/A
> Days between first case on 2/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/25/2020): 49
> Population: 5,813,568
A stay-at-home order is in effect until May 26. All but essential travel is prohibited. Violation or obstruction of the order is punishable by up to 30 days imprisonment, or up to $250 fine, or both. Some nonessential businesses, including outdoor recreational rentals, are allowed to reopen but are barred from direct contact with customers. Curbside drop-off of goods and animals is now allowed.
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Wyoming
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 7: 83 per 100,000 — 6th lowest (total: 479)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 7: 1 per 100,000 — 2nd lowest (total: 7)
> Tests as of May 7: 2,176 per 100,000 — 19th highest (total: 12,569)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 7
> Population: 577,737
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order. Anyone returning to Wyoming from any other state or country must self-quarantine for 14 days. Gyms, barber shops, hair salons and other personal care services, and elective surgeries have resumed on May 1 with limits on the number of customers in the facility.
Methodology
To determine every state’s rules on social distancing and restrictions on movement, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed each state’s governor executive orders since the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in the United States at the end of January.
Data on COVID-19 confirmed cases and related deaths came from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as from state and local health departments. The number of COVID-19 tests every state has conducted as of May 7 also came from state and local health departments.
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