TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Governor Ron DeSantis is ordering that another checkpoint be added on I-95 at the Georgia/Florida line to screen travelers as they try to enter Florida.
Sunday, Gov. DeSantis expanded Executive Order 20-86, to formalize the creation of a checkpoint at I-95 at the Georgia/Florida line. Earlier this week, DeSantis ordered that checkpoints be installed along I-10 and I-95 as well.
Depending on where the traveler is from, they will be directed to either proceed back to the Interstate or to pull aside for further screening.
The original order required motorists who are traveling from areas with substantial community spread including Louisiana, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, to isolate for a period of 14 days upon entry to Florida or for the duration of their visit.
When a traveler arrives at one of the checkpoints stationed along I-10 or I-95, each traveler or responsible family member (if traveling as a family) will be required to complete a traveler form.
According to the state, the form requires key information, including each traveler’s contact information and trip details.
Travelers will also be provided with a traveler card, which has contact information and guidance in case the traveler begins exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19,i ncluding fever, cough, or shortness of breath, while in mandatory isolation.
"FDOT’s top priority is safety; therefore, motorists who are approaching a checkpoint should be prepared to reduce their speed," officials wrote in a press release. "Motorists should expect to be directed by law enforcement to enter the weigh station."
Failure to complete the form and failure to follow any isolation or quarantine order from DOH are a violation of Florida law and could lead to jail time.
According to state officials, the checkpoint will be staffed 24 hours a day with more than a dozen Florida Highway Patrol troopers in 12-hour shifts.
The state says none of the checkpoints within the state are to impede commerce or the timely delivery of products across Florida. Commercial motor vehicles should proceed in the left lane and will be allowed to bypass the checkpoint.
The order does not apply to people performing military, emergency, health or
infrastructure response. It also does not apply to anybody involved in any commercial activity, including individuals that live in Georgia and commute to work in Florida.
As part of the implementation, the I-95 southbound ramp to U.S. 17 will be closed. Drivers trying to access U.S. 17 will be detoured to S.R. 200 in Yulee, Florida.
For additional real-time traffic information, please refer to https://fl511.com/.
