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Rome/Floyd COVID-19 UPDATES – FAQ FOR RESIDENTS

March 25th, 2020 – 4:00 PM

Rome/Floyd County –

Why are we doing this?
This is a critical intervention to reduce the spread of the coronavirus in Rome. The ordinance is designed to ensure that the maximum number of people self-isolate in their places of residence to the maximum extent feasible, while enabling essential services to continue, in order to slow the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to the maximum extent possible. While this news may feel alarming, it is a necessary step to prevent a worsening situation and not overwhelm our healthcare system. The patterns of the virus around the world, and in our own state, tell us that moving right now to maximize social distancing and restrict people gathering is the best way to fight the virus and help ensure that our healthcare networks are not overwhelmed.

What does it mean to “shelter in place?”
The term “shelter in place” means to stay in your home and not leave unless necessary for one of the designated exceptions in the ordinance. In other words, everyone should stay home to slow the spread of the virus. You should limit your movements to essential outings.

What are some exceptions to the “shelter in place” requirements?
Some reasons you would leave your home are to get food, to get a prescription, to see a doctor, to go to work if your work is considered “essential,” to take your child(ren) to and from childcare, and to help people you care for get the things they need to live and be healthy and safe.

What is the difference between the phrases “Shelter in Place” and “Self Isolate”?
Both phrases are being used by local officials during this emergency to communicate to residents that they should stay in their places of residence and should only leave for essential activities to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. When outside your home (for essential activities only), you should maintain (6) feet of social distance. Essential activities are defined in both orders linked above.

The city and the county emergency orders are different because each government manages a different jurisdiction.

Is this mandatory or is it just a guidance?
Mandatory. It is critical for everyone to follow the order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors and the whole community. All persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within the exemptions that are specified in the ordinance.

What does social distancing mean?
For purposes of the order, “Social Distancing Requirements” includes:
• maintaining at least six-foot social distancing from other individuals
• washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer
• covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands)
• regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and
• not shaking hands

How long is the ordinance in effect?

March 24, 2020 at 5 p.m. and will continue to be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 7, 2020, (unless changed by further action of the City Commission)

Will the police issue citations for violations of the shelter in place requirements?
No. The Police Department will support compliance with the ordinance by providing information and education to individuals violating the shelter in place requirements regarding the imminent threat to public health posed by COVID-19.

Can a Rome resident travel to their place of employment outside of Rome if their employer requires them to come to work?
If an individual believes traveling out of Rome to one’s job is essential to their health and safety or to the health and safety of their family or household members or partners or significant others.

I have read the full City of Rome “Shelter in Place” order and I am still not sure if my place of employment is considered “Essential”, how can I find out?

Call the City of Rome: 706-236-4400

Does the City of Rome have a curfew?
Under our City of Rome ordinances, teens under the age of 17 have to be at home between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. (A teen under 17 is permitted out past curfew if they are with a parent or guardian.) The curfew ordinance stated above has NOT been changed by the emergency “Shelter in Place” Order. There is no curfew for adults.

Are residents located outside of the City of Rome limits, but located in Floyd County subject to the ordinance?
Residents located outside the city limits of Rome are not subject to the Rome City Commission 2nd Declaration of State of Emergency, as the Declaration only applies to properties inside the corporate limits of the City of Rome, Georgia.

Floyd County residents have a separate Emergency Administrative Order.

Where can I find a copy of the City of Rome 2nd Declaration of State of Emergency “Shelter in Place” Order?
It is posted on the Rome/Floyd Corona Virus Updates page and Facebook Page.
View Order

Is there a Spanish translation of the City of Rome 2nd Declaration of State of Emergency “Shelter in Place” Order?
Yes, it is posted on the Rome/Floyd  CoronaVirus Updates page and Facebook Page.
View Order

Where can I find a copy of orders issued by Floyd County?
On the Rome/Floyd CoronaVirus Updates page
Is the Facebook page, “City of Rome, GA & Floyd County @romefloydga” an official City of Rome or Floyd County Facebook page?
No, this is not an official City of Rome or Floyd County government Facebook page and does not have any affiliation with any government. While this page pulls logos and images that may resemble government entities, it is purely a satirical page. Information published on satire pages are hoaxes with a deliberate attempt to fool readers.

What if I have additional questions that aren’t answered here?
Call the City of Rome: 706-236-4400

I have a complaint about a City of Rome business not abiding to current ordinances, who do I call?
Please contact the Rome Business License Office: 706-236-4459

I have questions about the Floyd County Emergency Administrative Order, who do I call?
Please call 706-291-5110
For questions involving local existing industries, call 706-291-7663