A state of emergency (also known as a declaration of war, martial law, or siege) is a situation during which a government is empowered to put through policies it normally would not be permitted to do for the safety and protection of citizens. It can be declared before, during or after a natural disaster, civil unrest, armed conflict, medical pandemic or other biosecurity threat. It can also be triggered by a nuclear incident or terrorist attack, although the use of this power has been criticized as being abused during dictatorships.
A Governor may declare a state of emergency when it is determined that the people of a State, or the United States, are in danger from an extraordinary and dangerous situation. The definition of the term “State” may be a broad one, including Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam and the Federated States of Micronesia. It is generally defined by statute and may be amended by the Governor.
The Governor’s state of emergency declaration does not require businesses to close, but it might prompt them to delay openings or cancel work. Large and small private businesses should establish their own administrative policies on early closures, delayed openings, cancellations or closures based on current and impending weather conditions, emergency plans and policies of your organization, designation of essential employees, and restrictions on travel. In addition, school districts may establish their own policies about closing during a State of Emergency.