Federal prosecutors could intervene if stay-at-home orders go too far, attorney general says

Attorney General William Barr said the Justice Department will intervene if stay-at-home orders in response to the coronavirus pandemic become too restrictive, directing federal prosecutors "to be on the lookout" for state and local directives that could be violating constitutional rights.

"These kinds of restrictions have been necessary in order to stop the spread of a deadly disease — but there is no denying that they have imposed tremendous burdens on the daily lives of all Americans," Barr said in a memo issued Monday. "If a state or local ordinance crosses the line from an appropriate exercise of authority to stop the spread of COVID-19 into an overbearing infringement of constitutional and statutory protections, the Department of Justice may have an obligation to address that overreach in federal court."

The memo comes as states begin to reopen their economies, despite warnings from health experts that easing restrictions could cause a resurgence of coronavirus outbreaks. In Georgia, where Gov. Brian Kemp has set in motion an aggressive plan to lift restrictions, businesses such as hair salons and gyms are allowed to reopen.

Thousands have also protested stay-at-home orders in multiple states, including Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. President Donald Trump has endorsed the protests, calling on supporters to "liberate" states that have seen large gatherings of protesters.

AG William Barr warns of federal action:Barr warns of Justice Department intervention if state lockdown orders go 'too far'

In his memo, Barr said restrictions on religious liberty, discriminating against "disfavored speech" and "undue interference" with the economy violate federal laws.