After concern was raised that Michaels and JoAnn craft stores were still operating after the order to close all nonessential businesses in the state, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has now ordered these businesses specifically to cease operations.

In two separate letters, the Ohio Attorney General's Office said that the two stores were continuing to operate retail stores in Ohio during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The letters said Michaels and JoAnn Fabrics do not appear to meet the criteria outlined in the nonessential business closure order.

On behalf of the Ohio Department of Health, the two stores were ordered to cease and desist operations immediately.

The office said if the stores do not immediately comply with the orders, the Attorney General's Office could take appropriate measures.

The letter said a violation of a director's order during a pandemic might be punished criminally as a second-degree misdemeanor or enforced by civil injunction pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 3701.352 and RC 3701.99(C).

The letter allows the businesses to provide justification for why they should be considered essential and therefore be permitted to remain 

Joann Fabric issued a statement to 21 News saying they have provided such justification, due to the role they play in providing fabric for masks that are used to slow the spread of the coronavirus. 

Such masks have been recommended for everyday use for anyone who is out in public by both the CDC and the Ohio Department of Health. 

In the statement, a spokesperson said they are complying with all requirements to maintain social distancing, are sanitizing stores and are limiting the number of customers permitted inside at one time.