Several state have implemented those "essential" business restrictions. Odd one I saw is residential and heavy construction were listed as not essential. But it specifically lists concrete and cement production as essential.
Left wondering how did the states prepare and plan for a potential epidemic from late December into February. Went thru several state department of health websites digging for details and news briefs.
Was additional/refresher training provided or recommended for healthcare providers?
Were medical supply inventories checked and orders placed? (mask and ventilator manufactures have stated no)
Were containment and isolation plans prepared and reviewed?
Were mandatory reporting forms prepared?(WA DOH did not have a Covid-19 form till March)
Were additional public awareness campaigns for flu season and common sense conducted? (evidently not as influenza peaked at over 10000/week in early February)
Did states question Congress on why CDC funding for immunization and public health response was reduced $660 million after a 3 month delay?
How soon did state health departments begin requesting additional funding to cover expenses of the above items?
Why did so many of these items wait until March for action?
What documentation do the states have to show they addressed items as many things may not get posted on a webpage or news brief?
In addition to state health departments, many of the questions could apply to hospitals - the administrators running the operation, not the doctors and nurses performing the day to day care of patients. The state health department is the principal point of contact for health care providers, not the federal government.