Coronavirus In Maryland: Hogan Puts Out Emergency Order To Expand Child Care Access
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Gov. Larry Hogan Saturday announced new measures designed to make child care access easier for first responders and other "critical personnel" during Maryland's coronavirus-related state of emergency.
The emergency order allows state schools superintendent Karen Salmon to suspend a number of childcare-related regulations as long as they don't endanger anyone's health or safety.
CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE:
- Coronavirus Latest: Where You Can Get A Free Meal For Your Children While Schools Are Closed
- Coronavirus Closings & Cancellations In Baltimore, Across Maryland
- Coronavirus Closings: Maryland, DC Universities Class Cancellations, Shifting To Online Classes
- What Is A Coronavirus?
- The Symptoms Of Coronavirus And What You Should Do If You Feel Sick
- LIST: EPA Releases Names Of Disinfectants You Can Use Against Coronavirus
- Coronavirus-Related Scams Are Going Around. Here's What To Watch Out For
- What We Know About Coronavirus In Maryland
- Latest coronavirus stories from WJZ
Under the order, Salmon will also be able to allow "family and friend child care providers" to provide in-home care for up to five unrelated kids.
State officials have urged child care providers to keep kids in groups of 10 or fewer, increase cleaning efforts and restrict trips and visitors to keep the virus from spreading.
Hogan previously announced all public schools in the state will close from March 16 to March 27; a number of private schools have taken similar steps.
For the latest information on coronavirus go to the Maryland Health Department's website or call 211. You can find all of WJZ's coverage on coronavirus in Maryland here.
