Howard County bans sale of nonessential items at stores still open during COVID-19 pandemic

HOWARD COUNTY, Ind. -- The Kokomo Tribune reports Howard County Commissions are ordering essential businesses that are still open to stop selling what they say are nonessential items.

The Tribune says beginning tomorrow stores in Howard county will have to put up signs near nonessential items that make it clear to customers that they are not allowed to purchase those items at this time.

What do they list as nonessential items? Jewelry, furniture and entertainment electronics are on the list.

There is no such restriction right now in Allen County. We have not heard of any plans to discuss such a restriction.

The Kokomo Tribune cites the ordinance which says, "This is not fair to the businesses that have closed in compliance with the County's order." The ordinance also talks about reports of people congregating at the stores because they are bored at home.

Full Report From Kokomo Tribune

"Please don't be upset by this," says Commissioner Paul Wyman. "Our doctors, our nurses, people who are on the front line of this ting are risking their lives everyday in our community in helping us fight the virus. How is that we can't do the same thing and just stay at home and do our part?"