Florida's top COVID-19 data scientist has been dismissed. Rebekah Jones says she's been fired for refusing to manipulate data "to drum up support" for the state's plan to reopen.
Under the new order, restaurants and retail stores can open. It does not extend to the three most populous counties, all in South Florida, which are home to most of the state's confirmed cases.
Mark Wilson of the Florida Chamber of Commerce says businesses will emphasize their health practices to attract customers when reopening. Restaurants and retailers will open at 25% capacity Monday.
Gov. Ron DeSantis says he wants to increase the number of National Guard personnel on "strike teams" that have been sent to long-term care facilities in the state to identify COVID-19 cases.
After days of pressure, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered a statewide lockdown. Florida had been the lone holdout among states most effected by the coronavirus in not having a stay-at-home order.
People who migrate South for winter are being told not to return to their year-round homes in the North. Some places that typically welcome their return are asking people to stay away.
President Trump claimed ally and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has taken "decisive steps" against the virus, but public health experts and a pending lawsuit say his leadership has been inadequate.
Virginia closes schools the rest of the year. Maryland orders nonessential businesses closed at 5 p.m. Monday. Massachusetts order goes into effect at noon Tuesday and will last at least two weeks.