• 1400 Ohio manufacturing companies respond to PPE requests
• 3 Inmates die in Ohio federal prison
• Anyone coming back into Ohio (a resident or non-resident) must quarantine for 14 days

As the second phase of stay-at-home order, which will end May 1, 2020 begins midnight in Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine has asked retailers to determine the maximum number of customers allowed in their stores to account for proper physical distancing as part of measures to combat the spread of coronavirus pandemic.

“The number of customers allowed must also be listed. I’d like to congratulate those businesses that have already started doing this. Some stores are only doing one direction per aisle – this is a great idea that helps. Some retailers are also cleaning off carts/baskets between customers,” said Governor Mike DeWine.

He commended Ohio businesses that have responded to the state’s requests for Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, saying that “we have had at least 1400 Ohio manufacturing companies who have responded to our call to try and help in this crisis.  The Ohio Manufacturing Alliance reaches out to each company to find out where they fit into our strategy.”

“And once we have our supplies, we’re going to use technology and innovation to identify ways to make our supplies last. A prime example is Battelle Technology which is doing this right now, sterilizing masks for our healthcare workers. This is a great tool.”

Governor DeWine disclosed that three inmates of Elkton Federal Correctional Institution in Columbiana County, the only federal prison in the state have died of coronavirus.

“This is a federal, not state facility. We know that seven inmates have tested positive COVID-19 – but we also know that dozens more have shown symptoms – some very serious and three have died.”

“In the meantime, I do, however, feel it necessary to make a plea to both the US Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Prisons to stop prisoner intake at this facility.”

He said that five inmates each in Marion and Pickaway correctional facilities have tested positive of coronavirus.

“We are testing those who have symptoms. Each employee is screened when they arrive, and their temperature is taken. DRC Ohio has decreased programming with citizens from outside the facility. “

“We’re not going to release anyone who is dangerous. We aren’t releasing sex offenders, for example. We’re going through the prisoners and taking a look at who might be getting close to release and who is in for a minor offense.”

Governor DeWine advised “Snowbirds coming back to Ohio from places like Florida: Welcome back, we want you back — but anyone coming back into Ohio (a resident or non-resident) must quarantine for 14 days.”

“Overall, we are doing pretty well. Ohioans are doing the right thing, and we can’t let up. But we do have the concern that people coming in from other states will bring COVID19 in with them.”

“For those coming into Ohio after being out of state: To be clear, we’re not talking about medical professionals, truckers, or those providing essential services. The order applies to those who vacationed elsewhere, went to a meeting in another state, etc.”

Also, Governor DeWine said the state is “working with mobile food vendors to set up to provide truckers options for hot meals because the restaurant options are limited. These are great opportunities to pitch in and help the team of people trying to deliver the services we all need.”