S.C. Governor closes more businesses, suspends short-term rentals

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S.C. Governor closes more businesses, suspends short-term rentals
Photo courtesy downtownbeaufortsc.org

Increasing his response to the COVID-19 outbreak in South Carolina on Friday, S.C. Governor Henry McMaster issued two new orders closing more businesses and suspends short-term rentals across the Palmetto State.

In addition to the non-essential businesses that have already been ordered to close, the Governor has now ordered the closure of all department stores, furniture, clothing, jewelry and shoe stores, as well as florists, sporting goods, music, book, home furnishing and craft stores.

This order will go into effect Monday, April 6th at 5pm.

Stores that can still remain open include grocery stories, gas stations, firearm retailers, hardware stores and home improvement stores.

Also, McMaster has ordered the immediate suspension of short term rentals in South Carolina, including short term home rentals, vacation homes rentals, bed & breakfasts and hotels, for folks who are coming from more affected areas.

Members of the military, first responders and commercial transport workers are exempt from the rental closure order.

In today’s press conference, McMaster reiterated that there is “no need” to order a statewide shelter in place order, citing South Carolina’s uniqueness as a reason why it’s not necessary.