Day in Corona: Who does Bill Lee think is 'essential?'

From March 25 through March 30, the number of COVID-19 cases doubled in Tennessee. That's what it took for the governor to offer more than thoughts and prayers.

But he still didn't offer much more.

In Executive Order 22, Gov. Bill Lee almost issued a decisive order to the entire state to shelter in place while waiting for the coronavirus storm to pass. Instead, he just "strongly urged" us all to use our best judgement and stay home.

Specifically it said: "Because with personal liberty comes great personal responsibility, all Tennesseans must do their part by staying at home whenever possible for a limited period of time to avoid exposure to, and slow the spread of, this virus, which will limit the burden on health care resources and allow normal activities to resume sooner."

Do you know what ends "personal liberty?" Death. Hospitalization puts a hamper on it too. Keep that in mind when you have a strong urge to leave your house.

This order came after nearly 2,000 people across the state were confirmed to have it, 13 people died (including Country artist Joe Diffie) and almost 150 hospitalizations (including the legendary John Prine) across 72 of Tennessee's counties.

It's still not strong enough, but it's better than nothing.

This doesn't mean everyone gets time off from work. If you can work from home, you should if for no other reason than to keep from getting blindingly bored.

In case you were wondering, here is who is essential:

• Health Care and Public Health Operations.
• Human Services Operations. Government, long-term care facilities, day cares, group homes and some nonprofits that provide food, shelter, social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged individuals, individuals with physical, intellectual, and/or developmental disabilities, or individuals otherwise in need.
• Essential Infrastructure Operations. Food production, distribution, and sale; construction-related services; operation and maintenance of utilities, telecommunications and internet (yay!); solid waste and recycling collection
• Essential Government Functions. First responders, EMS personnel and dispatchers; state legislators; some court personnel including judges; police and jailers; election officials and operations.
• Food and Medicine Stores, i.e., stores that sell groceries and medicine; but also convenience stores; and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Food and Beverage Production and Agriculture.
• Organizations that Provide Charitable and Social Services.
• Religious and Ceremonial Functions as long as they comply with CDC guidelines.
• Media.
• Gas Stations and Businesses Needed for Transportation.
• Financial Institutions, Banks and Insurance Entities.
• Hardware and Supply Stores.
• Critical Trades. This includes plumbers, electricians, exterminators and pest control, cleaning and janitorial staff.
• Mail, Post, Shipping, Logistics, Delivery, and Pick-up Services.
• Educational Institutions. So schools are essential, but he ordered them closed until April 24?
• Laundry Services.
• Restaurants for Off-Premises Consumption.
• Supplies to Work from Home.
• Supplies for Essential Businesses and Operations.
• Transportation. Airlines, taxis, rideshare services, car rental services, etc.
• Home-based Health Care and Services.
• Residential Facilities and Shelters.
• Manufacturing, Distribution and Supply Chain for Critical Products and Industries.
• Hotels and Motels.
• Funeral Services.
• Any other business or organization that operates at all times with 10 or fewer persons accessing the premises.

COVID-19 Reported Cases in Tennessee

To donate masks, email COVID.PPEDONATIONS@tn.gov or check TEMA's site for private sector PPE donations.

As of 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 31: