Governor McMaster Urges Donations, Extends Income Tax Deadline, and Allows Curbside Sale of Beer and Wine

Governor Henry McMaster recently took additional actions to enhance the state’s response to COVID-19’s continued impact to South Carolina.

“Team South Carolina is constantly reviewing the COVID 19 situation, and all plans and contingencies to contain this virus remain on the table,” said Gov. Henry McMaster.

Gov. McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-13 on March 23 alongside the following statement:

This weekend [March 21-22], we saw large crowds gathered on beaches, on sandbars, and in parking lots. We are facing a dangerous and deadly enemy and this type of behavior is both irresponsible and selfish. Law enforcement asked for clarification as to how this existing law applies during this state of emergency. I have included it in an executive order to make it clear that law enforcement has the ability to disperse groups of people who pose a risk to the public’s safety and to the safety of others.

It does not apply to private businesses nor to responsible South Carolinians continuing to make the best out of this situation. And as I said, this is not a shelter-in-place order but another measure aimed at containing the virus by controlling crowds, so that we do not have to shelter in place.

The governor has also asked construction contractors and others in the skilled trade industry to donate whatever personal protective equipment they can spare to healthcare professionals and state agencies in the greatest need, including respirator masks commonly used in construction settings. Those willing to make donations can contact Mary Louise Resch of Habitat for Humanity for logistical coordination via email at [email protected].

The governor also issued Executive Order 2020-12, which directs the Department of Revenue to waive additional regulations in order to allow restaurants to include sealed containers of beer and wine for curbside pickup or “to-go” orders only. This waiver does not authorize or apply to open containers or delivery services.

Additionally, the governor directed the Department of Revenue to conform the state’s income tax deadline to July 15th, which is the new federal income tax deadline.  Other state taxes will remain delayed until June 1st, as previously ordered.

Please visit the SC DHEC Coronavirus web page for additional information and the latest updates.