Illinois’ “Stay at Home” Order & Construction Work

On March 20, 2020, Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued an executive “Stay at Home” Order, requiring Illinois residents to stay in their homes to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Residents are encouraged to only leave their homes to meet their basic needs like making trips to the grocery store, the pharmacy, or to get exercise outdoors. As a result, the Order mandated the closure of all “non-essential” businesses. However, construction work is categorized as “Essential Infrastructure” and is exempt from the Order.

Under Article 9 of the Order, “Essential Infrastructure” includes workers working in food production, construction, building management, airport operation, operation of maintenance of utilities, and others. Under the exemption, construction projects may continue construction work as planned, however construction workers must practice social distancing and ensure that governmental-mandated safety standards are still met.

The language of Article 9 also exempts “Building and Construction Tradesmen and Tradeswomen” who perform essential construction activities, which will likely allow exemptions for workers like electricians, plumbers, and other tradesmen involved in construction projects. Additionally, the Order exempts manufacturers and distributors that produce and supply essential products to be used in construction projects.

Although the current Order allows for construction projects to continue, it is possible that the Order will be amended in the future, based on the progression of COVID-19 in the state of Illinois. During this time, the attorneys of Rock Fusco & Connelly, LLC, will continue to provide updates on changing laws as it pertains to the construction industry. Please direct any questions regarding Illinois’ “Stay at Home” Order, or planned construction work to the attorneys of Rock Fusco & Connelly, LLC.