Ohio Confirms New Coronavirus Deaths, State Issues Hiring Freeze

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio officials confirmed Monday there have been three new deaths because of the new coronavirus, COVID-19. Six Ohioans have now died from the virus. Dr. Amy Acton, director of the state health department, said other possible COVID-19 deaths are being investigated.

The deaths occurred in the following counties: Cuyahoga (1), Erie (1), Franklin (2), Lucas (1), Stark (1). There are at least 442 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ohio. More than 100 people have been hospitalized because of the virus, the Ohio Department of Health announced.

On Monday, Gov. Mike DeWine issued a freeze on hiring at all state agencies, unless they are directly combating COVID-19. The state is also halting contract services and asking state departments to make budget cuts of up to 20 percent.

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DeWine issued a "stay-at-home" order for Ohioans on Sunday and announced that only essential businesses will be allowed to remain open beginning Monday at 11:59 p.m. until at least April 6. The governor has been speaking with sheriffs and police departments on how they can enforce these new orders.

He said Monday he does not want to keep the orders in place for "one second longer" than necessary, but he must protect lives.

What is an essential business?

According to the new order, essential businesses include the following:

• stores that sell groceries and medicine;
• food, beverage and licensed marijuana production and agriculture;
• organization providing charitable services;
• cybersecurity infrastructure agencies;
• religious entities;
• media;
• gas stations and businesses needed for transportation;
• financial and insurance institutions;
• critical trades;
• hardware and supply stores;
• mail, post, shipping, logistics, delivery and pick-up services;
• educational institutions;
• laundry services;
• restaurants (only allowed to do carry-out and delivery);
• stores that sell supplies for working from home;
• stores that sell supplies for essential businesses;
• funeral services;
• hotels and motels;
• manufacture, distribution and supply chain for essential businesses;
• critical labor unions;
• residential facilities and shelters;
• transportation and home-based care and services.

Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said Monday that even businesses classified as essential will need to follow health and safety protocols.

What else does the stay-at-home order mean for you? Read Patch's other coverage to find out.