Business and Economy

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, consumers have been getting nervous about supplies — not just about cleaning supplies and toilet paper, but also food.

There are an estimated 30,000 Mainers who, one way or another, depend on the state's marine economies, and it seems every one of them is contending with some sort of hit right now, as the COVID-19 pandemic has upset the long-established systems of seasonal seafood supply and demand.

Businesses across the state have shut down or moved to largely work-from-home setups, as restrictions are imposed in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19. But "essential businesses" such as grocery and convenience stores are staying open. And, despite the addition of new policies to protect employees, many are still feeling anxious in the workplace.

Portland’s much-lauded restaurant scene has been closed to dine-in business for approximately two weeks thus far in an effort to curb the spread of the new coronavirus.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills announced Friday that there will be notifications on the Maine Turnpike near the New Hampshire border telling visitors from out-of-state that they must self-isolate for 14 days upon arriving in Maine if they are coming from places designated as COVID-19 hotspots. The governor says the move comes amid concerns that people will attempt to flee other states and worsen the outbreak here while also overwhelming the state's health care system.