FRANKFORT, Ky.  — Governor Andy Beshear tightened restrictions on businesses and banned residential evictions under a state of emergency declaration.

The Governor offered details about the new executive order as he warned against complacency.

“The next two to three weeks are going to be absolutely critical in our battle against the coronavirus,” Beshear said. “What you are doing is working. Your sacrifice is helpful. What we have done and the steps we are taking are helping. I am proud of what we are doing, but in these next two weeks we have to do even better.”

Wednesday’s order expands efforts to limit in-person contacts to help prevent the spread of the virus. Beginning at 8 pm Thursday, all non-life-sustaining businesses must close to in-person services.

Exempted businesses include grocery stores, gas stations, hardware stores, and media outlets, among many others. The sale of firearms and ammunition also is exempted.

Beshear also ordered a stop to all residential evictions as long as the state of emergency remains in effect.

Beshear said Kentucky has its first case of someone going on spring break and testing positive for COVID-19 after returning. The Governor and Dr. Steven Stack told those who went on spring break around gatherings of other people that they should self-isolate when they return so they do not spread COVID-19.

“Don’t go on spring break. You are going to put your health, the health of your family and the health of those around you at risk.”