Free Republic

Raleigh, N.C. — An Alamance County racetrack was brought to court Thursday morning by the state health department after not complying with the governor's order to close during the coronavirus pandemic. Ace Speedway in Elon is accused of holding stock car races that attracted thousands of people and repeatedly defying the state's request to comply with public safety regulations. A maximum of 25 people are allowed to gather under the state order to limit the spread of the virus. Andrew Casper, a lawyer for the state, said in court that the races put North Carolinians at "grave risk."

Gov. Roy Cooper ordered an Alamance County speedway that’s violated his executive orders against mass gatherings closed immediately, declaring the venue an imminent hazard. In an order issued Monday night and obtained by The News & Observer, Cooper and Dr. Mandy Cohen said Ace Speedway could open again if it presents a plan to adhere to state guidelines and that plan is approved by the Department of Health and Human Services. The speedway’s next scheduled night of racing is June 19. The order said Ace Speedway must notify the public by 5 p.m. Tuesday that its upcoming race schedule and...