DETAILS ON GOV. BRIAN KEMP’S MARCH 23RD EXECUTIVE ORDER

During a press conference on March 23, 2020, Governor Brian Kemp issued Executive Order 03.23.20.01 and Executive Order 03.23.20.02.  Both orders go into effect TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2020 AT NOON and last until MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2020 AT NOON. They include the following measures:

• A statewide ban on gatherings of 10 or more people unless at least 6 ft can be maintained between people at all times. The GA Department of Public Health (DPH) will have the authority to close any business, establishment, non-profit, or organization that does not comply with the terms of these orders.                              
• Enabling DPH to require certain individuals with an increased risk of complications from COVID-19 to isolate, quarantine or shelter in place, including those who live in a long-term care facility, have chronic lung disease, are undergoing cancer treatment, have a positive COVID-19 test, are suspected to have COVID-19 because of symptoms and exposure, or have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19 a shelter in place order for “medically fragile” residents                             
• Ordering the shutdown of bars and nightclubs                                                            
• Postponing the deadline to file Georgia taxes from April 15^th to July 15^th                    
• No enforcement of administrative rules that prohibit the practice of medicine, surgery, osteopathic medicine, and osteopathic surgery whose license may have lapsed or expired in the last five (5) years (does not apply to dentistry at this time)

GDA is currently seeking clarification from DPH on how Gov. Kemp’s orders affect Georgia dentists and their practices.  Until we hear otherwise, Georgia dentists should continue to follow the guidelines of President Trump’s Coronavirus Task Force, the CDC, the Georgia Board of Dentistry, as well as the GDA’s and ADA’s recommendations not to perform elective dental procedures at this time but be available for emergency cases. 

CITY OF ATLANTA DENTISTS:

Also late last night, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms issued Executive Order 2020-21 setting a 14-day stay-at-home order for the City of Atlanta.  This order directs Atlanta residents to stay inside their homes, except to receive “essential” services.  It further defines “Essential” services as grocery stores, parks, restaurants serving takeout, and healthcare services, including dental services. Go here to see the list of the map of Atlanta affected by this order.