In response to the growing threat from COVID-19, Governor Hogan has issued a mandate for Maryland residents to shelter in place, beginning March 30 at 8 PM. Farm work and any work in support of agriculture is considered essential work by the Department of Homeland Security and is expected to continue as normal.
During the mandate to shelter in place, travel to and from farms is considered essential travel. If stopped and questioned by law enforcement, any workers traveling to or from the farm should have with them a letter indicating their place of employment and that their job is considered essential. The burden is on the employer to provide employees with proof that they are an essential worker.
Attached below are letter templates that you can use for this purpose. Personalized for your farm workers and contractors doing work on the farm. Contact you local Extension Agent if you have questions. Special thanks to Paul Goeringer, UMD Extension Legal Specialist, for developing these templates.
Maryland Essential Farm Employee: MD essential-employee-farm-worker-permit-1
Maryland Essential Farm Contractor: MD essential-farm-contractor-permit
Delaware Essential Farm Employee: DE essential employee farm worker permit – de
Delaware Essential Farm Contractor: DE essential farm contractor permit – DE
