The COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 dramatically altered the daily lives of millions of Americans. In addition to the many medical, economic, social, and public policy questions raised by the pandemic are a range of legal issues. These include both short-term legal questions related to the unfolding outbreak as well as longer-term legal issues that are expected to persist in the wake of the crisis.

Among the most immediate questions were those related to matters such as the scope of state and federal authorities concerning quarantine measures; state and national travel and entry restrictions; employment or workplace policies (work from home, etc.); restrictions on occupancy in bars, restaurants, and other businesses; the movement of medical goods; and health care coverage.

Ongoing legal issues may include:

• employment and workplace policies (work from home, etc.)

• development, delivery, and prioritization for vaccines, testing, and treatments

• postponing national elections

• civil liability for COVID-19 exposure

• criminal actions related to hoarding and price gouging

• providing economic assistance to individuals and businesses

• freezing foreclosures, evictions, and debt collection.

In Georgia, the legal landscape in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved to address both immediate and ongoing issues. Initially, the state government, under the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, exercised its authority to implement quarantine measures, travel restrictions, and business occupancy limits. Executive orders were issued to mandate social distancing, restrict gatherings, and close certain non-essential businesses. Workplace policies, including work from home directives, were adopted by many employers in compliance with state guidelines and to ensure employee safety. The state also regulated the movement and distribution of medical supplies and addressed health care coverage issues as they arose.

Ongoing legal issues in Georgia include the adaptation of employment and workplace policies to accommodate remote work and ensure safe working conditions. Legal frameworks have been developed for the distribution and prioritization of vaccines, testing, and treatments. While there were discussions about postponing elections, Georgia proceeded with its elections with adjustments for safety. Civil liability for COVID-19 exposure is a developing area of law, with businesses seeking immunity from lawsuits through legislation. The state has taken measures against criminal actions such as hoarding and price gouging during the pandemic. Economic assistance has been provided through state programs and in alignment with federal relief efforts. Additionally, Georgia has implemented temporary measures to freeze foreclosures and evictions to alleviate the financial burden on individuals and businesses affected by the pandemic.