A majority of US states have issued some form of restrictions on businesses in an effort to combat the spread of Covid-19 – but not all of the services deemed “essential” are what you’d expect.
In a number of states, including Arizona, Indiana and North Carolina golf courses have been allowed to stay open.
Many states where marijuana is legal, including California and Colorado, have marked marijuana dispensaries as essential services.
Video game store Game Stop has argued it must keep shops open as it provides items related to remote working.
Several craft stores have also decided themselves to be essential businesses. One such company, Michael’s, reportedly told employees they were “fundamental” to allowing people “to take their minds off a stressful reality”, according to Business Insider
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In New Mexico and Florida, liquor stores have also been allowed to keep doors open.
Firearm and ammunition retailers are also on more state lists of essential services following a notice issued by the US homeland security agency this weekend that advised gun shops were “critical” businesses.
On Monday, Los Angeles County – the most populous county in the US – said it would allow gun stores to stay open during the pandemic due to the Trump administration memo.
BBC
