So far, this is the eighth extension of the coronavirus emergency initially declared by Indiana's chief executive March 6, 2020 after the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in Indiana.
A state law enacted in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks entitles vast authority on the governor when he determines the state has been struck by one or more of 30 potential disasters, including a "public health emergency."
The governor is authorized during a disaster to "employ any measure and give any direction" in accordance with the recommendations of the State Department of Health or local boards of health, both of which have a statutory obligation to "do what is reasonable and necessary for the prevention and suppression of disease."
Governor Holcomb's directive for residents to wear face masks in public places is among the powers derived from his emergency declaration is one example.