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 Maine, the legal landscape in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been shaped by both state statutes and executive orders aimed at addressing the immediate and ongoing challenges posed by the crisis. The state government, under the authority of the Governor and public health agencies, implemented measures such as quarantine protocols, travel restrictions, and guidelines for businesses including occupancy limits in public spaces. Workplace policies, including work from home directives, were adopted by many employers in compliance with state recommendations to reduce virus transmission. Maine also addressed the movement and prioritization of medical goods, including vaccines and treatments, through its public health infrastructure.

Long-term legal issues arising from the pandemic include adjustments to employment law to accommodate remote work, the establishment of guidelines for vaccine distribution, and the creation of policies to manage civil liability related to COVID-19 exposure. The state has also taken steps to mitigate economic hardship, such as providing assistance to affected individuals and businesses, and implementing temporary moratoriums on evictions and foreclosures. Criminal actions related to hoarding and price gouging during the emergency were addressed through enforcement of existing laws and potential new legislation. While Maine did not postpone national elections, measures were taken to ensure the safety and security of the voting process. The legal responses to the pandemic are subject to change as the situation evolves and may be further developed through legislation or judicial decisions.