Gov. Doug Ducey today announced more strategies to combat the spread of COVID-19 in Arizona. Those actions include activating the National Guard to assist grocery stores and food banks with re-stocking shelves.

Many food banks are short on volunteers. Grocery stores like Fry’s and Bashas’ have been reaching out to hire temporary employees during the high demand.

“This is an all-in effort,” Ducey said. “We are determined to take all necessary precautions to address this outbreak and will continue to act with urgency to protect public health.”

Besides using the National Guard to ensure food access, Ducey’s executive orders include halting all elective surgeries in the state to free up medical resources and increase hospital capacity.

An executive order also requires restaurants in counties with confirmed COVID-19 cases to provide dine-out options only. All bars, theaters and gyms must close. Pinal County has 10 confirmed cases.

Additionally, the Governor’s directive allows manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers to buy back unopened products from restaurants, bars and clubs.

Arizona Department of Transportation will delay expiration dates on driver licenses, a move mean to ensure those over age 65 do not need to visit MVD offices during a public health emergency. The policy also applies to commercial drivers.

 

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