Emergency order loosens restrictions on Wisconsin businesses

Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary-designee Andrea Palm signed Emergency Order #36 Monday that would allow standalone or strip-mall based retail stores to offer in-person shopping.

The order does limit stores up to five customers at a time while maintaining required social distancing. The order also allows drive-in theaters to operate with some restrictions. The governor’s office said all businesses must continue to follow all safety precautions and guidelines as outlined in the Safer at Home order. 

“In addition to added flexibilities and steps we have already taken for businesses, this is another disciplined turn of the dial that will allow Wisconsin’s business owners to safely get back to work and Wisconsin consumers to support their favorite local spots,” Gov. Tony Evers said. “Both customers and workers need to be confident in their safety, so we need everyone to be diligent in following best safety practices so we can continue to move our state forward while keeping our neighbors, families, and communities safe and healthy.” 

Emergency Order #36 goes into effect immediately. The state did release a frequently asked questions document, as well as guidelines on safe business practices.