It appears that the Stay-At-Home orders have been successful in helping Colorado “flatten the curve” on COVID-19 infections, hospitalization and deaths. Because of that, Gov. Jared Polis announced this week that the statewide stay-at-home order would lift on Monday and that Coloradans could begin transitioning into a “safer at home” phase. This “Safer at Home” executive order keeps many of the restrictions in place, while allowing for some additional shops to open and freer movement for all.

As we transition into the newest phase of our response to COVID-19, we want to remember that the first priority is to assess your own employees’ and customers’ health needs. It is clear we aren’t out of the woods, yet. We must keep everyone safe and healthy. Follow all health guidance from local, state and national experts. 

As the state relaxes it’s requirements, it is important to remember that the authority to issue public health orders resides with the county. When the county acts, their order applies to the entire county – including within municipal boundaries. Counties with public health orders in place amend their orders regularly to include everything the state does. However, the state’s action is a ‘floor’ and several counties have issued more restrictive orders, including Denver, Adams, Arapahoe, Jefferson and Boulder counties that have all extended their local stay-at-home orders through May 8.

The Colorado Counties Inc website has a current list of Public Health Orders by county. We encourage you to closely review each county public health order, discuss them among your team, and review it with your legal counsel. 
The Governor’s new executive order continues to support solar installations and development as essential, if proper health and safety precautions are taken. The biggest impacts from tonight’s executive order are that retail businesses may open for curbside delivery and, while teleworking is still highly encouraged, starting on May 4, up to 50% of staff can work in person (with social distancing in place).

COSSA will continue to work with our state and local officials to understand the impact of COVID-19 on our state and our industry. We will communicate any developments to our members as soon as we can