Stay Home To Save Lives

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced federal, state and local governments around the world to take urgent action to protect public health.  That includes implementing orders requiring people to stay home as a way to help combat the spread of this deadly virus.  However, in the United States, these orders do not override all of your constitutional rights.

What are the stay-at-home, quarantine, and safe work orders?

 In many cities and counties across the country, such as here in Texas, various stay-at-home orders have been implemented to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.  In Texas, dozens of counties have already implemented such orders.  The governor, the Texas Supreme Court, and various government agencies have also issued rules and guidelines to respond to this public health emergency.

Are stay-at-home orders constitutional?

 Probably yes.  There is no question that national, state and local governments can - and should - respond to emergencies and natural disasters.  When government actions during the state of emergency interfere with your constitutional rights, those actions could still be constitutional.

Can I be fined, arrested or jailed for not following these orders?

 Possibly.  Texas Disaster Law allows the application of emergency plans, with fines of up to $ 1,000 or 6 months in jail.  However, the ACLU of Texas calls on all police officers, sheriffs, and other government officials to first educate the public and warn people about this public health crisis, and to only apply fines or imprisonment strictly as a last resort. as these measures worsen the economic crisis resulting from COVID-19 and accelerate the spread of the virus in local prisons.