In his continued response to the coronavirus pandemic, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker ordered utility companies Tuesday to not shut off gas, electric or water for people who fail to pay their bills.

The declaration applies to all investor-owned business. The order will last until the governor’s state of emergency, announced on March 10, is lifted or the state Department of Public Utilities determines otherwise, according to a statement from Baker.

"This order will ensure the continued availability of gas, electric, and water service to all ratepayers during the state of emergency,” DPU Chairman Matthew Nelson said in the statement. “Today’s action will also protect residents and businesses from added economic pressure during these difficult and uncertain times.”

The announcement comes as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect businesses and people’s finances. To combat the impact, Baker launched a $10 million recovery loan fund for small businesses last week, and President Donald Trump has previously ordered a suspension on all foreclosures and evictions through the end of April.

Congressional and White House leaders Tuesday night also agreed on an emergency stimulus package to provide million of dollars in aid to businesses, workers and health care systems affected by the outbreak. The federal tax deadline has been pushed back as well, and local tax extensions are being considered.

Baker’s order also prohibits utility companies from sending messages to customers threatening to shut off services for failure to pay an entire or portion of a bill, the statement said. Any business that violates the declaration may be issued a penalty up to $1 million per violation.

The DPU issued a moratorium earlier this month requesting that utility companies stop shutting off gas and electric services to residents. The new order now includes any investor-owned companies, including industrial, commercial and small business customers, according to the governor’s statement.