On April 29th, 2020, Governor Doug Ducey extended his Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected Order until May 15th with some amendments. In doing so he eased some of the restrictions on retail establishments that were not considered essential under the initial order.  

Most agriculture establishments offering retail food for sale were considered essential services under the initial order and could remain open but some, like farm winery tasting rooms, were not and have been closed since mid-March. 

Arizona Farm Bureau sent a letter to the Governor’s office last week advocating for the opening of farm winery tasting rooms operating under a series 13 or series 19 license to be allowed to resume operations under a phase one re-opening of the economy. Wine tasting rooms are much more like retail establishments than dine-in restaurants or bars. 

In his amended order announced this week, he issued new guidance for non-essential retail establishments. These new guidelines are good news for those non-essential ag retailers as it will give them additional flexibility for retail operations. The amendment for non-essential retail comes in two phases: 

  • Starting May 4th, non-essential retailers may offer curbside, drive-up or services by appointment.
  • Starting May 8th, those retailers may open and offer good for sale inside their stores provided they implement protocols and best practices to address COVID-19. 

For more information on the amendments to this order or steps for retail businesses to comply, please visit https://azgovernor.gov/governor/news/2020/04/updated-guidance-arizonans-businesses.