COVID-19 Update for March 19, 2020 – 1:15pm

Premier Doug Ford announced additional measures in response to the COVID-19 situation at his noon news conference this morning including:

• Waiving noise bylaws to allow retailers to accept deliveries are now 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; and
• Suspending all eviction orders until further notice; and
• Suspending all renewals for driver’s licenses, license plate stickers and health cards.

The province is also likely to waive the three-month waiting period for OHIP eligibility for those returning to Canada from abroad, Deputy Premier Christine Elliott said in response to a question.

Minister Elliott is also looking into methods for getting new Ontarians access to the healthcare they need.

The Premier was asked about social distancing and imposing sanctions or measures for those who are not cooperating. He responded by noting that if a bar or restaurant remains open there are enforcement options available, but the public has been cooperating thus far and there is no need for additional measures in Ontario.

He also said that it was the responsibility of every individual returning from abroad not to return to work and self-isolate for 14 days.