(Raleigh, NC) – In an effort to curb the continuing  spread of COVID-19 North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued a stay at home order Friday.

The newly issued order will go into effect as of 5pm Monday the 30th. Violation of the order will result in a Class 2 misdemeanor, but it will be left up to the localities and their attorney’s to determine the level of enforcement.

Governor cooper said during the news brief, “To continue our aggressive battle to slow the spread of COVID-19, today, I have signed a stay-at-home order for the entire state of North Carolina. Enforcement begins at 5 p.m. on Monday, but we urge you to start as soon as possible.”

While the order directs individuals to reduce travel and suggests not leaving home; it does not close essential businesses such as restaurants with delivery and carry out, grocery stores, gas stations, and health care providers amongst others.

As of Friday morning North Carolina had 763 positive cases of COVID-19.