Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey released the following statement late Thursday, March 19: “COVID-19 is my top priority, and I wanted to make you aware of some of the proactive measures we have taken and resources that are available to Arizonans to help us persevere through this challenging time.
Today, we took multiple executive actions following CDC guidelines to ensure public health and safety:
Activating National Guard: To ensure Arizonans have continued access to food, I’m activating the National Guard to assist grocery stores & food banks in the face of heightened demand.
Freeing Up Medical Resources: I’m issuing an Executive Order that halts all elective surgeries in the state to free up medical resources and maintain the capacity for hospitals and providers to continue offering vital services. This will reserve critical protective equipment for the fight against COVID-19.
Updating Restaurant Requirements: I’m issuing an Executive Order aligning with guidance from CDC.gov that requires restaurants in counties with confirmed cases of COVID-19 to provide dine-out options only, and closes bars, movie theaters and gyms. Restaurants will be allowed to deliver alcoholic beverages with food purchase.
Delaying License Expirations: I’m issuing an Executive Order to delay expiration dates on Arizona driver licenses, ensuring residents over the age of 65 do not need to visit Motor Vehicle Division offices to renew their driver licenses during the public health emergency.
Additionally, the Small Business Administration granted our request for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration. It applies to all 15 Arizona counties. If you own a small business, see the resources below to help you apply for this program.
Instructions to Apply for an SBA Disaster Loan
We are grateful to community partners and the work they are doing to keep our citizens safe and healthy. Many Arizona grocers are providing special shopping hours for our seniors and those with underlying health conditions.
We are continuing to work proactively to protect public health and safety around the clock. This challenge is going to test our state and country, but it will not break our state or country. We will overcome it.”
Thank you,
Doug Ducey
Governor of Arizona
