Gov. McMaster says SC will do stay-at-home policy ‘only if it becomes necessary’ – By Maayan Schechter (The State) / March 26 2020
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster on Thursday held off on endorsing a statewide stay-at-home policy as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the state continues to rise — and as local governments pursue their own restrictive orders — adding state leaders will only implement that “drastic” measure “if and only if it becomes necessary to take those steps.”
“When will it become necessary? How will we know?” McMaster said during a press conference, referring to when the state may order a stay-at-home policy. “We will know based on the data, on the facts, on the science, on the expert knowledge and opinions and analysis of the professionals in the field. … We will do it on the basis of nothing else. If that time comes, you will certainly know and we will say so.”
The push back came as the cities of Columbia and Charleston have adopted their own policies outlining who is and who is not considered essential and is able to travel to and from work while the state attempts to treat the coronavirus outbreak.
Myrtle Beach City Council also decided Thursday to shut down hotels, accommodations services and popular attractions.
The city of Greenville also is reportedly considering a similar measure.
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