An executive order to stay at home in Florida begins Friday at 12:01 a.m.
When it goes in effect, Orange County officials say its order is no longer in effect, so follow the governor’s.
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However, in Seminole County, its rules still apply.
The governor lists “attending religious services conducted in churches, synagogues and houses of worships” as an “essential activity.”
However, Seminole County states that “all places of assembly,” including houses of worship, must be limited to 10 people or less.
“This follows the CDC’s guidance, but it also follows the president’s guidance for America. So you can continue to have services,” said Alan Harris, Seminole County emergency manager.
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Last Sunday, New Salem Primitive Baptist Church had a service and positioned worshipers apart for social distancing. About 25 people attended.
Carlus Haynes, a church member, attorney and the pastor’s brother thinks churches should be able to limit capacity by 30% like a business, instead of having a 10-person limit.
“If I can go to a place and deal with man’s law, I should be able to come to a place of worship and hear God’s law," Haynes said.
Stephan Boehringer is working remotely instead of in his downtown office because of the coronavirus. He said he supports the governor’s order.
“I think it’s ripping the Band-Aid off and trying to get this over as quickly as possible,” Boehringer said.
Osceola County says it’s policy group is discussing the differences between its stay-at home order, and the governor’s.
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