Lee County leaders working to clarify what changes when executive order goes into effect

Lee County leaders are working around the clock to clarify what will change at midnight.

At an emergency meeting last night they zeroed in on what the order requires and one word makes all the difference—that word is “shall”.

The county attorney defined for commissioners, and you, the restrictions in this order are binding and mandatory.

“Meaning if you were to conduct yourself outside of the activity specified as exempt you might very well be subject to the penalties for violation,” said Lee County attorney, Richard Wesch.

This means senior citizens and individuals with “a significant underlying medical condition
(such as chronic lung disease, moderate-to-severe asthma, serious heart conditions,
immunocompromised status, cancer, diabetes, severe obesity, renal failure, and liver disease) shall stay at home and take all measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.”

The order goes on to state,  all persons in Florida shall limit their movements
and personal interactions outside of their home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.”

The governor says it’s to protect yourself, your family, our community that’s most at risk.
Like the Lopez family of Bonita Springs whose daughter is battling leukemia.

I can’t even take her out to my front porch to get some fresh air during the daytime…let’s listen to what our state is telling us to do,” said Ericka Lopez.

The order doesn’t enact a curfew so it’s not clear how police would know whether you’re headed to an essential service, which there are many essential activities allowed.