AILA Members and Friends:
Every day brings new developments. All of us are trying to keep up both to make certain that we are supporting the fight against the pandemic and that we are following the requirements of law.
Based on a new State Health Department Order just issued today, beginning March 28, 2020 at 5:00 p.m., “all non-work related gatherings of 10 persons or more, or non-work related gatherings of any size that cannot maintain a consistent six-foot distance between persons, are prohibited.” See the Order here: (CLICK HERE). The order also requires a number of specific “non-essential” businesses to close. This order is statewide in nature and overrides orders issued by the Jefferson and Mobile County Health Departments. The order is not inconsistent with the determination that financial services are “essential” and that consumer finance companies are “financial services.” However, the order restates the premise that in remaining open for business, businesses must respect the numerosity and distance standards.
The new state order expires on April 17, 2020, at 5:00 p.m.
On a personal note, I am profoundly proud of the response of our fellow citizens to this unbelievable situation that we are all commonly suffering. The pandemic knows no race, class or economic distinctions. Truly, this event has changed every American’s life, and has put us into the position that it is truly in everyone’s best interest that we hang-in there together.
Your safety and health remain constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
Maury
