Massachusetts orders non-essential businesses closed

Governor Baker issued an emergency order this morning (March 23) ordering “non-essential” businesses and organizations to close their physical workspaces and facilities to customers, workers and the public until April 7.

Under the order, trucking companies fall under a myriad of the categories listed as an “essential” functions. Further, the governor’s order includes a wide range of trucking-related employment activities including dispatchers, maintenance and repair technicians, warehouse workers, truck stop and rest area workers, and workers that maintain and inspect infrastructure (including those that require cross-border travel).

The appropriate documents can be found online.

Many elements of the trucking industry are already covered by the governor’s executive order. If there does not appear a related industry covered as “essential” under this order, a waiver request is available. The governor, during his press conference, specifically discussed that the list of “essential” business type will be expanded as needed. If individuals want to request designation as an essential business, an online application is available.