Hernandez Emphasizes Importance of Complying with Mandatory Stay at Home Order

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is urging residents to comply with Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s mandatory stay at home order to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

“These are unprecedented times, and it is crucial that we are all doing our part in stopping the spread of COVID-19,” said Hernandez. “Following the guidelines of the governor’s mandatory stay at home order is imperative to the health of our state. While essential services will remain open, we all must continue to do our part for the community and stay home unless seeking medical attention or other essential needs.”

Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s mandatory stay at home order took effect on Saturday, March 21, declaring that all Illinois residents must stay at home except for when using essential services. Essential services include hospitals, doctors’ offices and clinics, pharmacies, police and fire stations, grocery stores and public transportation. Dine-in restaurants and bars will remain closed while the stay at home order is in effect, but many will continue to offer carry-out and drive-through options.

Hernandez is encouraging residents to visit coronavirus.illinois.gov for more information on the mandatory stay at home order. If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or have questions regarding the virus, residents should directly contact the Illinois Department of Public Health by calling their 24-hour hotline at 1-800-889-3931 or emailing dph.sick@illinois.gov.

“This is a critical time in our state and in our country, and I commend Governor J.B. Pritzker for taking these steps to protect our community,” said Hernandez. “This process is one that is quickly changing, but I am confident that if we all work together and adhere to the rules and guidelines being presented to us, we will be able to prevent further spread of the virus and help save lives.”