New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Tuesday that New Yorkers should prepare for the possibility of a “shelter-in-place” order within the next 48 hours. 

The measure would be a step up from the city’s last order shutting down public schools as well as thousands of bars, restaurants, gyms, and casinos. 

It would also be the first of its kind on the East Coast and the most aggressive effort by a single municipality to halt the spread of the coronavirus, but the specifics have not been outlined. 

“All New Yorkers, even though a decision has not been made by the city or the state, I think that all New Yorkers should be prepared right now for the possibility of a shelter-in-place order,” he stated.

So far, just six counties in the San Francisco Bay Area have passed similar orders that starting Tuesday shut down all non-essential businesses and directed individuals to stay inside as much as possible until at least April 7.

The Northern California orders stopped short of prohibiting people from leaving their homes without express permission. Residents can still go out to obtain health care, shop for essentials, and provide assistance to friends and family members. A total of 6.7 million people fall under the orders 

New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson has pressured de Blasio to follow the Bay Area’s lead. He told WYNC radio on Tuesday that he feels the city is acting too slow in enacting stricter measures. 

The New York Times reported on Monday that there has also been pressure from within de Blasio’s administration to push ahead with more aggressive measures. 

Share:
More In Culture
DeSantis to Expand 'Don't Say Gay' Law to All Grades
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ' administration is moving to forbid classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in all grades, expanding the controversial law critics call “Don't Say Gay” as the Republican governor continues to focus on cultural issues ahead of his expected presidential run.
Taylor Swift Dives Into First Tour Dates
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour recently opened with two nights at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. During a key moment in both shows, Swift performed what Billboard has called a one-of-a-kind stunt that has been leaving fans speechless. (It's not your typical stage dive!)
President Biden Gives Springsteen, Kaling and Others Arts Awards Delayed During Covid Pandemic
Musician Bruce Springsteen, actress Mindy Kaling and designer, Vera Wang were some of the celebrities honored at the White House on Tuesday. President Biden and his wife Dr Jill Biden gave honorees medals. Other honorees included Gladys Knight, Julia Louis Dreyfus and Amy Tan. The medals are Biden's first batch of awards for the arts and humanities. They were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Load More