April 20, 2020 – Governor McMaster allows some stores to reopen 2 weeks after closing due to COVID-19

In today’s news conference Gov. McMaster announced the following modifications to executive orders due to COVID-19:

• As of noon April 21, the order closing beaches across the state will be lifted. The decision regarding public access to the beach will be returned to local jurisdiction.
• As of 5 p.m. today, the order closing certain non-essential businesses such as furniture stores, department stores, clothing, and shoe stores, is canceled. Social distancing is still required. Additionally, these stores may only allow 20% of the total occupancy or five customers per 1,000 sq. ft, whichever is least, inside the store at one time.

Groups of three or more are still prohibited.

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Statement from Horry County Government

Per Gov. Henry McMaster’s latest executive order, public beach accesses in the unincorporated areas of Horry County will reopen on Tuesday, April 21, at 12 p.m.
The governor’s executive order requiring individuals from different family units to stay 6 or more feet apart remains in effect. Law enforcement will continue to disperse groups of three or more who pose a threat to public health.

The governor has also issued an executive order to allow certain retail stores to reopen for in-person sales; however, guidelines have been put into place to restrict the number of individuals who can occupy these businesses at a given time. To review the guidelines in detail, visit the governor’s website.

Horry County Police Department Beach Patrol and River Patrol will remain in place on the beaches and waterways to enforce the governor’s orders. Community members are encouraged to use common sense and make good choices.

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North Myrtle Beach Public Beach Access Update

The City of North Myrtle Beach will reopen public beach accesses at noon on Tuesday, April 21. Social distancing is required and groups of 3 or more will be dispersed. Order will be available here.

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City of Myrtle Beach Update Regarding Public Beach Access

The City of Myrtle Beach issued executive order #7 today which states public access to the beach and adjacent parking will remain closed until one of the following occurs: the emergency declaration expires, City Council directs otherwise or the emergency order is rescinded.

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“AccelerateSC” Update

Gov. McMaster also shared more details about the new initiative “AccelerateSC.” This economic revitalization plan consists of five components of analysis and effort: response, protection, governance, resources, and information. It includes 29 participants from business sectors across the state who will identify a phased revitalization path for South Carolina’s economy, guided by healthcare and medical data. These participants will make immediate, intermediate and long-term recommendations to the governor for revitalizing and expanding South Carolina’s economy while protecting the health of South Carolina citizens. Read more about AccelerateSC here.