Frequently Asked Questions

If I go to work, will I be violating state or local guidelines or get in trouble?

The curfew and shelter in place policies do not apply to food and agricultural production services. We will stay open to serve our communities. Government and regulatory authorities have designated various businesses as essential to public health and safety including those growing, processing or shipping food. The shelter-in-place and curfew guidelines exempt essential businesses from the guidelines, including our workers who need to travel to commute to and from work and carry out their job duties.

In the unlikely event I am stopped by law enforcement, how should I respond?

You should comply with any law enforcement instructions. Politely and calmly explain that you work in farming or food production and that the work you do is essential under the guidelines. Show the letter above and let the officer know that they can verify who you are by calling the phone number provided above. If an encounter escalates or becomes difficult to manage, please try to document (e.g. writing down department, officer name or badge) and contact your supervisor for further assistance.

As a worker in food production or transportation, am I exempt from shelter-in-place and curfew guidelines for non-work activities?

No. When you are not working, you should adhere to all guidelines. 

Why is it important that I continue to come to work?

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, workers like you are helping communities around the world in a way that very few can—safely providing healthy food for all communities. This is increasingly vital as healthy food supports healthy immune systems.  Your work is truly important and greatly appreciated by all of us.

If I feel sick or someone in my household is sick, should I continue to come to work?

No. The health of our coworkers is our top priority and it’s critically important that you remain home if you’re feeling sick and/or if someone in your home has had a fever recently. You should wait until you (and/or housemate) have been cleared by your health care provider to return to work. If you begin to feel sick during your shift, please contact your supervisor immediately.

Thank you for your courage, understanding and cooperation. Together we will overcome this difficult time!