Coronavirus impact: State-by-state re-openings & restrictions

By Daniella Genovese FOXBusiness

The aggressive measure is meant to keep the virus in check by forcing people to stay away from each other.

Local governments around the nation are working to reopen the economy months after “stay-at-home” or “shelter-in-place” orders were implemented in an attempt to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.

As the virus rapidly spread around the world, government officials throughout the United States took drastic steps to keep their residents safe, allowing those venture outside for essential jobs, errands and exercise only. Many states closed non-essential businesses and limited restaurants and bars to take out and delivery only.

The aggressive measures are meant to keep the virus in check by forcing people to stay away from each other as often as possible. The White House, also in a rush to curb the spread of the disease, released sweeping guidelines that affected American’s day to day lives.

However, eager to get businesses up and running and employees back on their feet, an ever-changing patchwork of loosening stay-home orders and business restrictions are beginning to take shape with strict safety measures in place.

Here is the state by state breakdown of restrictions imposed by local officials:

Alabama  

Gov. Kay Ivey’s “safer at home” order took effect on April 30, the same day the state’s stay-at-home order expired. Under Ivey’s new order, which is currently in effect until May 15, businesses may open as long as sanitation and safety guidelines are in place. However, businesses or activities deemed “high risk” will remain closed for the time being.

Click here for the list of businesses and activities considered “high risk.”

Retail shops are allowed to open at 50 percent capacity, however, social distancing guidelines still apply. Additionally, beaches are now open to the public as long as there are no gatherings of 10 people or more and beachgoers remain six feet apart.

Restaurants, bars and breweries are still limited to curbside pickup, takeout and delivery services.

On Thursday (March 26), Gov. Ivey announced that Alabama school systems will be closed for the remainder of the academic year. Distance learning will continue and Alabama Public Television will be broadcasting some courses on its television stations.

An amended “Safer at Home” order was amended Friday (May 8) to expand the types of businesses permitted to re-open Monday, May 11, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. The original order for all others remains in place until Friday, May 22, 2020 at 5:00 p.m

Starting May 11, restaurants can open with 50 percent occupancy rate. Nail salons, hair salons personal service salons may re-open as long as they follow CDC safety guidelines including  6 feet between tables. Gyms, fitness centers and athletic facilities may re-open as long as CDC guidelines are followed.

In addition to businesses, church services can resume and beaches can re-open with no limit on gatherings, but groups must maintain 6 feet of separation.

On Thursday (May 21), Gov. Ivey issued an amended “Safer at Home” order that goes into effect on May 22 and expires on July 3. Under the new order entertainment venues — such as arcades, theaters, and bowling alleys — can open as of 5 pm and athletic practices can resume but are limited to conditioning, skill drills, etc through June 14.

On May 23, summer camps and child daycare centers can re-open adhering to social distancing and safety requirements.

Given the spike in corsonavirus cases, on Wednesday (July 15), Gov. Ivey a issued statewide mask mandate through the end of July. The current “Safer At Home” order has been amended with the new mask ordinance and remains in effect until 5 p.m. on July 31.

Alaska 

Gov. Mike Dunleavy began reopening Alaska’s economy on April 24. Retail shops, restaurants, personal services, gyms, childcare and day camps, religious gatherings and graduation ceremonies were among the services and activities allowed to resume with restrictions. While the economy begins to recover, these businesses will resume under limited capacity with safety precautions in place such as requiring face masks, continuing sanitizing procedures and enforcing social distancing guidelines.

The move comes as the first of three phases in the governor’s Reopen Alaska Responsibly Plan whichseeks to “balance the ongoing need to maintain diligent efforts to slow and disrupt the rate of infection with the corresponding critical need to resume economic activity in a reasonable and safe manner.”

Earlier this month, the state required that all elective medical procedures be canceled or postponed until June 15.

The governor issued a “stay at home” order on Thursday (March 27) to run through April 21. While International and out-of-state travel restrictions were extended to May 19, the plan to re-open includes: barbershops, tattoo parlors, nail salons and tanning salons can returning starting Friday (April 24), but only allowing one customer in at a time.

In addition, the Anchorage Daily News reported Tuesday (April 21), that restaurants will also be allowed to re-open for dine-in service. However, the eateries can only seat up to 25 percent capacity. Retail stores can open as well with the same capacity limitations as restaurants and must have hand sanitizers at all entrances. Bars, bingo parlors and bowling alleys still must remain closed.

Arizona

On April 29 Gov. Ducey extended his statewide stay-at-home order until May 15, however, some restrictions will be lifted.

Retail businesses currently not operating can begin curbside pick-up on Monday, May 4. By May 8, those businesses may resume in-person operations as long as sanitation measures and safety guidelines are followed.

“Arizona’s focus has been protecting public health and slowing the spread of COVID-19 — and this approach is working,” said Ducey. “Physical distancing is making a difference. We’re slowing the spread. The last thing we want to do now is undo these gains.”

On April 1, after receiving a letter from the Coconino County health department, the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service announced the closing of the Grand Canyon National Park. The letter from county officials informed the NPS and Interior Dept. that an employee of Delaware North, which provides food and beverage and retail services as well as lodging at Yavapai Lodge and Trailer Village RV, Park, had tested positive for the coronavirus.

On Monday (May 4), Gov. Ducey issued an executive order allowing cosmetologists and barbershops to resume appointment-based services starting May 8. The governor also said restaurants and coffee shops can resume dine-in services with physical distancing measures starting May 11.

On Tuesday (May 12) Gov. Ducey announced Arizona’s “stay-at-home” executive order will be lifted after it expires Friday and that the state would enter the first phase of reopening. Retail shops, hair salons, and barbershops can re-open. In addition and restaurants adhering to new guidelines have been given the green light to resume dine-in service.

In addition, gyms and fitness centers can resume operations starting Wednesday (May 13), under the following conditions:

• Masks should be worn “when possible.”
• Surfaces must be disinfected between each customer.
• Arrange waiting areas to keep people at least 6 feet apart.
• Arrange cardio equipment to adhere to physical distancing guidelines.
• Consider contactless check-ins and online class reservations.
• Consider requiring customers to bring their own towels.
• Screen employees for symptoms at the start of their shifts.
• Provide disposable disinfectants so customers can wipe down gym equipment.

Arkansas  

Gov. Asa Hutchinson is beginning to reopen the state’s economy in stages starting with gyms, cosmetology, massage therapy, body art and medical space services.

“We’ve all felt the absence of these services recently, & professionals are eager to resume their work,” Hutchinson tweeted. “I have great confidence that our stylists & other professionals will work hard to protect themselves & their clients & still provide the highest quality of service.”

On May 4, gyms and fitness centers were ruled to be eligible to re-open, as long as they adhere to guidelines. The implementation of the following precautions must be in place:

• Staff must wear a face covering or mask at all times.
• Patrons should wear a face-covering except when actively exercising.
• Ban the use of pools, spas, showers, saunas, until notified otherwise.
• Locker rooms are to be used only for storage of personal items. 
• Hand sanitizers should be available throughout the facility.
• Staff should ensure that all exercise machines or equipment are sanitized after each use (via wipe-down with disposable disinfectant wipes, Lysol or the equivalent).
• Maintain proper spacing from others by working out with 12 feet between each person. 
• Avoid personal contact at all times, including handshaking.
• Individual training sessions, indoor group fitness classes, and workouts that require a partner must maintain 12 foot spacing between each person.

In addition, the following people will not be permitted to enter gyms or fitness facilities:

• Anyone who has returned from travel to New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, New Orleans or overseas within the last 14 days;
• Anyone who has had a fever of 100.4°F or greater in the last 2 days;
• Anyone who has a cough, difficulty breathing, sore throat, or loss of taste or smell;
• Anyone who had contact with a person known to be infected with COVID-19 within the previous 14 days;
• Anyone with a compromised immune system and/or have chronic diseases.

Starting May 6, cosmetology, massage therapy, body art and medical space services may re-open as long as they adhere to the following restrictions:

• No walk-in appointments
• Face coverings required for staff and for clients 
• In small facilities,a maximum of 10 customers are allowed at one time; in larger facilities, no more than 30 percent of stations can operate at one time.  
• Six-foot distance between clients during appointments
• Client name and contact information must  be recorded

Starting May 11, restaurants will be permitted to open but at limited capacity. In addition, masks and gloves need to be worn by staff. Plus employees need to be screened for the virus. Dining patrons must also wear masks.

On May 15,  state park visitors centers, museums, exhibits, gift shops, golf pro shops and marinas will open but be under a limit of how many people are allowed in the facilities. In addition, high-use trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Devil’s Den State Park, and Petit Jean State Park will remain closed for residents and visitors alike.

Rental of campsites, cabins, lodges will be limited to Arkansas residents starting May 15. In addition, residents with self-contained RVs will be allowed to stay overnight in campgrounds. However, bathhouses will remain closed and the check-in and check out process will be automated.

Back on March 30. the state department of health issued a recommendation of “Self Home Quarantine” for 14 days for all travelers from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, New Orleans and all international locations. The quarantine includes no visitors in your home during the 14 days. There is no stay at home order for the state, but hair care businesses, fitness centers, and on-site dining at restaurants are closed. In addition, indoor social gatherings of more than 10 people are not permitted.

Schools in the state will remain closed for the remainder of the school year.

On Monday (May 4), Gov. Hutchinson announced that churches and large outdoor venues can reopen effective immediately, under social distancing guidelines; Hutchinson also said that May 18 is a target date for large indoor venues to open. Those allowed to re-open must adhere to the following:

• Have a 12-foot distance between performers and audience.
• Have 50 or fewer performers/players/contestants.
• An audience of 50 or fewer people.
• Have a six-foot distancing for seating except for family groups.
• Every other row should be unoccupied.
• Face coverings should be worn by all attendees over 10 years of age.
• Refreshments allowed but no self-service.
• No entry to a building for anyone if having a recent fever or other symptoms.
• Hand sanitation stations at all entrances.
• Eliminate use of multiple touch items like collection plates and shared books.
• No classes for youth or childcare.

On Tuesday (May 5),  Gov. Hutchinson extended the state of emergency for another 45 days. It had been set to expire on May 21. However, he also announced that restrictions on out-of-state travelers from states that are not categorized “hot spots” were being removed.

Good news for bar owners and barflies. Gov. Hutchinson announced Monday (May 18) that effective Tuesday (May 19) bars inside restaurants can re-open. However, standalone bars and pubs must wait until May 26 to reopen so those establishments have more time to prepare for social distancing.

On Wednesday (May 21), Gov. Hutchinson announced that K-12 non-contact team sports may resume on June 1 with limitations including:

•  Practice and competition allowed for limited-contact team sports like baseball,  softball, track, gymnastics, swimming subject to physical distancing, personal  equipment, and  disinfecting requirements
• Temperature checks for coaches and staff
• Face coverings are for everyone 10 or older
• Conditioning/training permitted with  limit group size, distancing restrictions
• Team practice and competition is prohibited for close contact sports like basketball, wrestling, football, volleyball, soccer, and martial arts

In addition, the governor said the Crater of Diamonds State Park will re-open on May 22, but will be limited to  500 visitors a day.

On Tuesday (May 26), bars were permitted to open at 30 percent capacity.

Gov. Hutchinson on Thursday (July 16) issued a statewide mandate  to wear masks. Repeat violators who ignore the order could be hit with fines ranging from $100 to $500,

California 

The Golden State is inching toward reopening. “Low-risk” businesses will be allowed to reopen their doors with safety measures in place, California Gov. Gavin Newsom said. Starting Friday, bookstores, clothing stores, florists and sporting goods stores can reopen as well as manufacturing and supply chains associated with each.

However, Orange County beaches will remain closed after crowds packed the county’s waterfront defying Newsoms’ policy to social distance.

The County of Los Angeles — which includes the City of Los Angeles — firmed up plans on May 6 to re-open certain businesses starting Friday. County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Kathryn Barger said resumption would be limited to curbside pick-up for the following businesses:

• Bookstores
• Clothing stores
• Florists
• Music stores
• Sporting goods stores
• Toy stores

In addition, car dealership showrooms can open for sales as long as there is an adherence to distancing and infection control protocols.

Outdoor parks, golf courses and trails can re-open but social distancing must be adhered to and facemasks or covering should be worn. Beaches remain closed.

Los Angeles International Airport announced that starting on May 11, all persons within the airport’s terminals will be required to wear face coverings. This new order extends the policy that all Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) employees must wear face coverings in public areas of terminals and office buildings. Anyone not wearing a face covering will be asked to put one on.

The steps in reopening come after Newsom closed all beaches and state parks across the state effective May 1 to help slow the spread of the virus, according to a memo sent to California police chiefs.

Newsom’s statewide stay-at-home order took effect in mid-March.

On April 7, The San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) announced that schools will not re-open for this school year, which ends on June 2, 2020. San Francisco and five other Bay Area counties — Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, Santa Clara —  after consulting with health officials opted to end the school year.

Around the same time, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced all residents were required to wear face-coverings when attending to food shopping, pharmacy visits and the majority of “essential businesses.” In addition, workers at those businesses must wear face coverings, which business owners must either provide or reimburse workers for purchasing.  Masks, bandannas or some type of protection will have to cover the noses and mouths of all individuals.

Likewise, on April 9, the city of Beverly Hills issued an order requiring all people, including essential workers, to wear face coverings whenever they leave their homes. The order includes people going for walks through their neighborhood. The new rule requires Hills’ resident to wear cloth coverings such as a scarf or bandana. PPE medical masks are recommended to be worn only by healthcare and emergency workers.

The seven Bay Area Public Health Officers, who ordered a shelter in place in mid-March, extended the order through May 31, although some restrictions will be eased. The changes include:

• All construction projects will be allowed to resume but only if they comply with safety protocols.
• Real estate transactions will be permitted to resume, but with continued restrictions on open houses and limitations on in-person viewings.
• Wholesale and retail nurseries, landscapers, gardeners, and other businesses that primarily provide outdoor services can re-start operations.

On Monday (May 11), Los Angeles County announced that all beaches — which have been closed since March 27 — would reopen on Wednesday, May 13. However, the beaches are only open for “active use” which means for walking, jogging, surfing, swimming, skating, etc. No sunbathing, lounging on the sand, picnics etc. will be permitted. Beach parking lots will also remain closed as will bike paths, boardwalks and piers.

Just one day after the county planned to re-open its beaches, LA County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said at the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday (May 12) that “with all certainty”  the “safe at home” order would be extended for another three months, An official announcement is expected Wednesday.

At almost the same time, in Sacramento, Gov. Newsom was unveiling new guidelines for the return of dine-in restaurants re-opening. The guidelines include using disposable menus, suspending the use of shared condiments, and having patrons wait in their cars if their table isn’t ready. In addition, servers will wear masks and diners will be kept at least six feet apart. However, the governor also noted that local governments can opt to be more restrictive than the state.

In addition to the “Phase 2” re-opening of restaurants, the following businesses will also be allowed to re-open:

• Curb-side retail
• Manufacturers
•  Childcare for those outside of the essential workforce
• Office-based businesses (telework remains strongly encouraged)
• Select services: car washes, pet grooming, and landscape gardening
•  Outdoor museums, and open gallery spaces and other public spaces with modifications

As of May 15, the California Department of Public Health moved the state deeper into an “expanded Phase 2” by allowing 21of the state’s 58 counties to further ease coronavirus restrictions,

Those moving into the next phase of California’s four-phase reopening plan are the following counties:

1. Amador County
2. Butte County
3. Calaveras County
4. Colusa County
5. Del Norte County
6. El Dorado County
7. Glenn County
8. Humboldt County
9. Lassen County
10. Nevada County
11. Mariposa County
12. Modoc County
13. Placer County
14. Plumas County
15. San Benito County
16. Shasta County
17. Sierra County
18. Siskiyou County
19. Tehama County
20. Tuolumne County
21. Yuba-Sutter County

This next phase allows for the re-opening of: • Destination retail, including shopping malls and swap meets • Dine-in restaurants (other amenities, like bars or gaming areas, are not permitted in Stage 2) • Schools with modifications

On Monday, (May 18), Gov. Newsom said at his daily briefing said, “Sporting events, pro sports, in that first week or so of June without spectators and (with) modifications” could resume.

In addition to the 21 counties listed above, another 17 counties were given permission to move into “Phase 2.” Under those next phase guidelines, all counties can re-open destination retail, including shopping malls and swap meets; dine-in restaurants and schools with modifications. The additional counties are:

•  Inyo County
• Kern County
• Kings County
• Lake County
• Madera County
• Mendocino County
• Merced County
• Mono County
• Napa County
• Sacramento County
• San Diego County
• Santa Barbara County
• Solano County
• Stanislaus County
• Trinity County
• Ventura County
• Yolo County

On Tuesday (May 26) Gov. Newsom announced that barbershops and hair salons can open immediately in the 47 out of 58 California counties that have received approval for an accelerated reopening. The counties that can join those mentioned above for re-opening are:

• Alpine County 
• Amador County
• Fresno County
• Orange County 
• Riverside County 
• San Bernardino County
• San Joaquin County 
• San Luis Obispo County
• Sonoma County
• Sutter County

As of Wednesday (May 27), Los Angeles will “allow all retail businesses” to let customers inside their stories, Mayor Eric Garcetti announced Tuesday night (May 26). The change does not include nail shops, salons or restaurants for dining in by customers. The California Department of Public Health announced on Monday that the various counties public health departments could allow for the return of retail shopping in-store if safety measures were in place,

In addition one of the city’s most popular hiking areas, Runyon Canyon will allow hikers to return. However, “counters’ will be posted at the entrance to ensure it does not get too crowded and the “loop trail” will only operate in one direction.

On Friday (May 29)  Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn tweeted that Los Angeles county restaurants, hair salons and barbershops will be able to reopen, so long as they conform to anti-COVID requirements. The re-openings can start this weekend. Plus, restaurants will be allowed to offer dine-in service. In addition, 49 counties have been approved for accelerated re-opening which allows for curb-side retail, grooming service and outdoor gathering spaces as outlined here. The approved counties are: 1. Alpine County 2. Amador County 3. Butte County 4. Calaveras County 5. Colusa County 6. Del Norte County 7. El Dorado County 8. Fresno County 9. Glenn County 10. Humboldt County 11. Inyo County 12. Kern County 13. Kings County 14. Lake County 15. Lassen County 16. Los Angeles County 17. Madera County 18. Mariposa County 19. Mendocino County 20. Merced County 21. Modoc County 22. Mono County 23. Napa County 24. Nevada County 25. Orange County 26. Placer County 27. Plumas County 28. Riverside County 29. Sacramento County 30. San Benito County 31. San Bernardino County 32. San Diego County 33. San Joaquin County 34. San Luis Obispo County 35. Santa Barbara County 36. Shasta County 37. Sierra County 38. Siskiyou County 39. Solano County 40. Sonoma County 41. Stanislaus County 42. Sutter County 43. Tehama County 44. Trinity County 45. Tulare County 46. Tuolumne County 47. Ventura County 48. Yolo County  49. Yuba County

Gov. Newsom and the California Department of Public Health revealed the guidelines for restarting film and TV production in the state — except in Los Angeles County. Starting June 12, subject to approval of the county public health officers where the production is taking place, production can resume as long as cast, crew and other industry workers abide by safety protocols agreed by labor and management, which may be further enhanced by county public health officers. Back office staff and management should adhere to office workspace guidelines released by the California Department of Public Health and the California Department of Industrial Relations.

However, production alos depends on a “review of local epidemiological data including cases per 100,000 population, rate of test positivity, and local preparedness to support a health care surge, vulnerable populations, contact tracing and testing,” the state department of health said in a statement.

According to a new industry guidance document issued by the state on Monday (June 8), movie theaters can re-opening starting June 12. Social distancing measures will be put in place and according to The Hollywood Reporter, Gov. Newsom will add that capacity be limited to 25 percent, or no more than 100 people per theater.

Television and film production guidelines were issued by the Los Angeles County Health Department on Thursday (June 11). Production can resume on Friday (June 12) under the conditions of the new guidance which includes:

• Health checks for all vendors and employees when they arrive on set
• Protocol and workflow assessment to ensure proper social distancing and infection control
• Designation of a workplace COVID-19 compliance officer
• Established procedures for any employee exhibiting coronavirus symptoms or for those who test positive

On Friday (June 26), Mayor London Breed of San Francisco announced that she is temporarily delaying the reopening of certain businesses and activities scheduled for Monday, June 29 due to an increase in coronavirus cases. Businesses impacted include: Hair salons and barber shops, nail salons, tattoo salons, museums, zoos, outdoor bars, and outdoor swimming.

On Sunday (June 28), Gov. Newsom ordered that bars in seven California counties — Los Angeles, Fresno, Kern, San Joaquin, Tulare, Kings and Imperial — close down due to an increase in coronavirus cases. In addition, he recommended that eight other counties — Contra Costa, Santa Clara, Sacramento, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Santa Barbara and Stanislaus —  consider closing bars in those areas.

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Office announced via Twitter on Monday (June 29) that Los Angeles County beaches, piers and bike paths will be closed Friday (July 3) through Monday (July 6) to halt the potential spread of the coronavirus.

On Wednesday (July 1),  Newport and Laguna beaches joined Los Angeles and Laguna for beach closings for the Independence Day weekend. In addition, Gov. Newsom announced that 19 counties in the state must close indoor operations for restaurants, movie theaters, wineries, family entertainment centers, zoos and museums.

Gov. Newsom amidst concerns over an uptick in coronavirus cases on Monday (July 6) said that Colusa, Madera, Marin, Merced, Monterey and San Diego counties have been added to the list of those instructed to close bars and indoor operations.

Last week the following counties were rodered to close bars and indoor restaurant operations:

• Contra Costa
• Fresno
• Glenn
• Imperial
• Kern
• Kings
• Los Angels
• Merced
• Orange
• Riverside
• Sacramento
• San Bernardino
• San Joaquin
• Santa Barbara
• Santa Clara
• Solano
• Stanislaus
• Tulare
• Ventura

California is made up of 58 counties in total.

On Thursday (July 9) officials for Napa County returned certain restrictions in an attempt to quell the growth of coronavirus. For the next three weeks, indoor services at restaurants, bars, wineries, and entertainment centers will shut down.

Colorado

On April 20, Gov. Polis announced the “stay at home” order will expire on April 26 and the state’s “re-opening” will begin. The governor’s “Safer at Home” plan encourages continued telecommuting and allows non-essential retailers to offer drive-up and home delivery. On May 4, non-essential business offices can reopen with half the usual staff to allow for social distancing.

Businesses allowed to resume include real estate showings, but only one-on-one appointments and no open houses; childcare facilities can reopen with precautions and hair salons, dog groomers, personal training and tattoo shops, may reopen with precautions including the wearing of masks.

However, the governor said long-distance learning would continue for the remainder of the school year. While the state is not extending the “stay at home” order, Mayor Michael Hancock of Denver, said he was extending the order in his jurisdiction until May 8.

On Monday (May 11), Gov. Polis announced a timeline for some re-openings:

• May 25 — Private campsites may open effective immediately
• May 27 — Restaurants may open for in-person dining with 50 percent capacity but cannot exceed 50 people.  
• June 1 —  Children’s day camps and youth sports camps may reopen

With a spike in coronavirus cases, on Thursday (July 16) Gov. Polis  announced that everyone 11 years old and above are required to wear a mask or other facial covering while in public indoor spaces, including all retail stores. The order is effective at midnight and runs for at least the next 30 days.

Connecticut 

On April 10, Gov. Ned Lamont extended the state’s stay-at-home order which is set to expire on May 20. In order to protect the safety of children, public school classes will also remain closed until May 20. After that date, the state will gradually reopen certain industries with safety precautions in place as long as the state sees a decline in 14-day hospitalizations; more testing; sufficient contact tracing capacity; adequate healthcare capacity and PPE supply.

The businesses targeted for the May 20th re-opening with the practice of social distancing continuing are:

• Restaurants (outdoor only – no bar areas)
• Remaining retail Offices, but telecommuting is still encouraged where possible
• Barbershops, hair salons and nail parlors
• Museums and zoos (outdoor exhibits only)
• University research programs

In March, the New Haven Line of Metro-North — the main railroad between New York City and Connecticut, began to operate on a reduced schedule. Trains will shift to hourly departures, however, extra trains will run during peak hours during the business week. Lamont said that this move represents approximately 50 percent less railroad traffic than a normal weekday schedule. Metro-North’s three Connecticut branch lines — The New Canaan Line, Danbury Line, and Waterbury Line — will also operate on a reduced schedule.

On Tuesday (May 5), Gov. Lamont ordered in-person classes at all K-12 public school facilities to remain closed for the rest of the 2019-2020 academic year and continue providing distance learning during this period.

On Friday (May 8), Gov. Lamont said starting May 20 restaurants, barbershops and hair salons (but not nail salons), retail, and offices can re-open under the following guidelines:

Restaurants

• Must operate at 50-percent capacity with outdoor dining only
• Tables must be 6 feet apart 
• Bars and dance floors remain closed
• Contactless payments encouraged
• Tables & chairs sanitized between groups
• Menus must be paper, digital or posted on chalkboard/whiteboard
• Hand sanitizer & cleaning wipes available at entrance and exit
• Employees to wear facemasks or cloth face coverings with table servers wearing disposable gloves that are changed frequently
• Customers wear facemasks or cloth face coverings except while dining

Retail (includes malls)

• Maximum 50-percent store capacity
• Fitting rooms closed
• Physical barriers at checkout
• Markers indicate 6-foot distance in line and at door
• Self-serve counters closed
• Hand sanitizer & cleaning wipes at entrance points
• Employees to wear facemasks or cloth face coverings at all times
• Customers to ear facemasks or cloth face coverings at all times

Personal Services

• Maximum 50-percent capacity
• Appointments only
• Waiting rooms closed
• Workstations 6 feet apart
• Physical barriers where possible
• Contactless payments preferred
• Tools soaked in disinfectant between clients
• Hand sanitizer & cleaning wipes at entrance points
• Employees to wear facemasks and face shields or eye protection
• Employees to provide clean smock for each customer
• Customers to wear facemasks or cloth face coverings
• Blow drying hair will be prohibited

Offices

• Maximum 50-percent capacity, but work from home where possible is recommended
• Meetings subject to 5-person limit
• Employees seated 6 feet apart
• Physical partitions where possible
• Limit elevator capacity
• Limit equipment sharing
• Hand sanitizer & cleaning wipes at all entrances and in common areas
• Employees to wear facemasks or cloth face coverings except when in a private office

On Friday (May 15) Gov. Lamont announced the state’s beaches would open on May 22 under the following conditions:

• No public gatherings or groups of over five
• Face coverings worn when in proximity to others
• Set parking capacity limits at each beach based on observations of levels needed to maintain social distancing
• Daily closures when social distancing cannot be maintained
• Use of social media and other communications to inform the public when capacity is restricted so they can plan to go elsewhere
• Spacing of 15 feet or more between beach blankets

On Monday (May 18), Gov. Lamont revised his decision on some personal services re-opening. “We’ve been hearing a lot of feedback from many owners and employees, and at this time I think the best approach is that we hit pause on the reopening of hair salons and barbershops, take a step back, and allow some more time as preparations continue to be made,” LaMont said in a statement. While targeting early June for re-opening, Lamont also said he wants to coordinate the re-openings with other states.

On Monday (June 15) Gov. Lamont said Connecticut businesses that are eligible to open under Phase 2 of the state’s reopening plans, which takes effect on Wednesday, June 17, are reminded to self-certify with the state prior to opening. The self-certification process — which can be done at business.ct.gov/recovery — demonstrates to the state that businesses understand and will comply with COVID-19 rules and regulations. It

• Businesses islated to re-open on Wednesday include:
•  Amusement parks
• Hotels/lodging
• Restaurants for indoor dining
• Museums, zoos, and aquariums
• Movie theaters
• Bowling centers
• Libraries
• Outdoor events
• Nail salon
• Tattoo parlors  
• Gyms and fitness centers

The rules for how these businesses need to operate can be found here.

In conjunction with the governors of New York and Jersey, Gov. Lamont on Wednesday (June 24) announced a joint incoming travel advisory for all individuals traveling from states with significant COVID-19 spikes will be asked to quarantine for 14 days. The edict applies to any person arriving from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents over a 7-day rolling average or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average.

In conjunction with New York and New Jersey to protect the tri-state area from seeing increases in COVID-19 cases, the state on Tuesday (June 30) began requiring self-quarantine for travelers from: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nevada, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.

The travel advisory applies to those arriving from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents over a 7-day rolling average or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average. Essential workers are exempted.

On Tuesday (July 21), Connecticut, New York and New Jersey updated the tri-state quarantine restriction list to include:  As of Tuesday, individuals traveling from Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, North Carolina, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, bringing the total to 31 states.

District of Columbia

The mayor of Washington, D.C., Muriel Bowser, ordered the shutdown of  “non-essential” businesses in the District by 10:00 p.m. starting March 25 and to run through April 24. Those businesses include: touring services, gyms, health clubs, spas, theaters, auditoriums, nightclubs, hair, nail, and tanning salons and barbershops and tattoo parlors.

In addition, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) announced Tuesday (March 24) via its “Pandemic Task Force” that it would close 17 train stations starting Thursday, March 26 following a 90 percent decline in subway ridership. Metro said, “These steps will help reduce the risk of exposure to employees and save critical cleaning supplies for the remaining stations.”

The stations scheduled to close are:

• Federal Center SW
• Federal Triangle
• Mt Vernon Sq, Judiciary Sq, Archives
• Greensboro 
• Eisenhower Ave 
• Virginia Square
• Cleveland Park 
• Grosvenor-Strathmore 
• Cheverly
• Clarendon 
• East Falls Church 
• College Park 
• McLean 
• Morgan Boulevard 
• Van Dorn St

On Monday, March 30, Mayor Muriel Bowser issued a “stay at home” order effective at 8 pm local time. The directive — which follows actions made by neighboring Maryland and Virginia — bars people from public unless they are out for food, medicine or supplies. People who willfully violate the order face will criminal penalties which could include up to 90 days in jail and fines of up to $5,000.

Mayor Bowser issued a new order on Wednesday (April 8)  for grocery stores and other retail food businesses to submit “a social distancing plan” in order to continue operation. Additionally, the order states that farmers’ markets may not operate unless issued a waiver by the city. To obtain a waiver, a market manager must submit a plan to the District government explaining how they will operate and enforce social distancing protocols.

One week after issuing her social distance plan, Mayor Browser ordered (April 15) extended the “stay at home” order” through May 15 and said residents must wear some sort of face covering or mask at hotels and in taxis and rideshares as well as shoppers in grocery stores. In addition, the city’s Metro system is also asking riders to wear face coverings.

On Wednesday (May 13), Mayor Bowser announced that the stay-at-home order would be extended through June 8, and also announced an easing of restrictions for educational/academic retail shops. Starting Friday, May 15, educational and academic retail shops, such as bookstores, can seek waivers to reopen for curbside and front-door pickup sale.

On Thursday (May 21) the mayor said gave May 29 as the target “Stage 1” re-opening date for the following:

• Hotels with safeguards
• Office but work from home is strongly recommended
• Construction sites with safeguards
• Restaurants with open outdoor seating with physical distancing and safeguards
• Non-essential retailers can provide curbside and delivery service
• Barbershops and hair salons can re-open by appointment with safeguards and physical distancing (5 people per 1,000 sq. ft)
• Places Of Worship can offer virtual worship services and/or groups up to 10 people
• Higher education with limited on-campus activities

In addition, all social gatherings are limited to 10 people and travel remains discouraged.

On Wednesday (May 27), Mayor Bowser announced that the District would enter “Phase 1” of it re-opening on May 29. While working from home is still highly recommended, businesses permitted to resume operations include:

•  Restaurants with outdoor seating. Tables must be six feet apart, and no more than six people can be seated at each table.
• Non-essential retailers can provide curbside, front-door pickup, or delivery. Customers remain forbidden from entering the store proper.
• Barbershops and salons with strong safeguards and physical distancing of 5 people per 1,000 feet. Service is limited to one customer per stylist. Services are limited to hair services. Nail salons and similar establishments are still closed.
• Higher education can be conducted with limited on-campus activities
• Select libraries can conduct limited curbside service
• Houses of worship would continue with virtual services or groups under 10 people
• Parks, fields, tennis courts, tracks and golf courses, but  playgrounds, public pools and recreation centers will remain closed. Contact sports are still forbidden.

Delaware

Gov. John Carney ordered residents to stay at home and closed nonessential businesses in the state.

On Friday (May 8), Gov. Carney targeted June 1 as the date to begin “Phase 1” of the state’s economic re-opening but also extended his “Stay at Home” through May 31.

The first phase would:

• Limit gatherings to 10 people
• Allow a return to work in phases
• Re-open restaurants with strict guidelines
• Permit elective surgeries to resume
• See gyms re-open with strict guidelines

On Thursday (May 14) Gov. Carney announced ice cream shops and ice cream trucks will re-open on Friday May 15 with take-out or curbside pick-up with strict social distancing measures. Children under 12-years-old must be accompanied by an adult.

Beaches and community pools may reopen on May 22 with strict social distancing requirements and other restrictions. Beachgoers must maintain at least 6 feet of distance between themselves. Face coverings must be worn on the boardwalk and are encouraged on the beach.  Community pools must be limited to 20 percent of regular capacity and swim lessons or practices of swim teams are not permitted. Restaurants and bars on boardwalks are still limited to delivery and take-out services only. Arcades will remain closed.  All beach towns must mark 6 feet intervals in front of retail stores on boardwalks where lines are likely to form as well as entrances to the beach, or any other area where congregating or waiting in lines is likely to occur Identify enforcement teams. The rental of items such as umbrellas, chairs, mats, kayaks, etc. are allowed so long as the vendor properly disinfects between each rental. A complete list of beach rules can be found here. 

On Tuesday (May 19), Gov. Carney announced additional steps allowing retail establishments and restaurants to expand operations – while maintaining social distancing. Under the interim steps, all retail establishments may operate by appointment only beginning at 8:00 a.m. starting Wednesday, May 20. Restaurants, bars, taprooms and craft breweries may also apply — starting May 22 — to expand outdoor seating capacity to safely serve additional customers when the businesses reopen in June.

The ban on short-term rental units and the mandatory 14-day quarantine for out-of-state travelers will be lifted on June 1 Gov. Carney announced on Tuesday (May 26)  when “Phase” 1 of the state’s re-opening is scheduled to begin. The plan allows retail establishments, restaurants, personal care businesses, gyms, and other businesses to open at 30 percent of stated fire capacity with social distancing requirements and other public health guidance in place. In addition face coverings are also required.

Additional requirements call for food and drink establishments offer reservation-only dining; delivery and takeout available with bars closed and no self-service. Barbershops can operate by-appointment-only.

Real estate companies can resume open houses with no more than 10 individuals and proper disinfecting of property. Gambling operations such as casinos and horse racetracks must submit re-opening plans to State Lottery and the Department of Health. Gaming machines must be kept at least 8 feet apart and spectators are not permitted at the race tracks.

Child care facilities must be designated as an Emergency Child Care Site; Open for employees of essential and/or reopened businesses. Also,  youth sports — but no contact sports — can resume; Strict social distancing must be enforced and groups should be limited to 10; Coaches and staff must wear face coverings; No competitions Outdoor gatherings of up to 250 people – including weddings and outdoor graduation ceremonies – will be permitted in Delaware beginning on June 1, with basic public health precautions in place to protect against spread of COVID-19.

On Tuesday (June 2), Gov. Carney announced that “Phase 2” will begin on June 15 at 8:00 am, raising the indoor gathering limit to 50, allowing restaurants, convention centers, meeting facilities, retail stores, arts and culture and malls to expand from 30 percent to 60 percent capacity. In addition, childcare facilities will be permitted to reopen.  Gov. Carney also said that on June 8 at 8:00 am, personal care services — hair salons, barbershops, tattoo parlors, massage therapy services, nail care and similar services — may re-open at 30 percent capacity and by appointment only.

On Thursday (June 25), Gov. Carney announced that the plan to move into “Phase 3” of the state’s re-opening on Monday, June 29 will be delayed. In addition everyone will be rerquired to wear a mask in public.

Florida 

One day after Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered visitors flying from the New York Tri-state area (New York, Connecticut and New Jersey) to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in the Sunshine State, the governor Tuesday (March 24) called for anyone who has traveled to the Tri-state area in the past 3 weeks to self isolate for 14 days and notify anyone they’ve had contact with that they have traveled recently. In addition, anyone over 65 years of age has been ordered to “stay at home” for the next 14 days to minimize potential exposure to coronavirus.

Late Tuesday (March 24), the City of Miami ordered all residents to shelter in place and remain at home until further notice, effective at 11:59 p.m. All non-essential travel within Miami city limits — including by car, public transit, motorcycle, etc. — is prohibited until further notice. Citizens are allowed to travel for “essential goods” at grocery stores and pharmacies as well as “perform work in support of essential activities and establishments” and “deliver essential services to homes, such as repair, landscaping and pool services.”

Outdoor recreational activities is permitted, but not locations already closed to the public under the existing emergency order, such as city parks.

Following the lead of several cities in the Sunshine State, on Wednesday (April 1) Gov. DeSantis mandated a 30-day stay-at-home order effective midnight Thursday for all residents to remain indoors unless they are pursuing essential services or activities.

Several cities in the state have issued orders on Friday (April 10) that anyone visiting grocery stores, pharmacies or other retail businesses that are still open must cover their faces. The cities are: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Cooper City, Miramar, Miami, and Delray Beach. Miami-Dade County put a similar edict into effect on Thursday (April 9). People should wear bandanas, scarf or cloth covering that goes over the nose and mouth.

In Jacksonville, Mayor Lenny Curry re-opened parks and beaches on Friday (April 17).  Baches will open from 6 to 11 a.m. and from 5 to 8 p.m. each day for the limited activities and social distancing must be practiced. , In the parks, gatherings must still be limited to 50 people or less.

On Monday (April 27), 2020, City of Key West City Manager Greg Veliz announced the opening of its parks, beaches, and recreational facilities to local residents only and playgrounds will remain closed. The Keys remain closed to visitors.

Beach hours in Jacksonville were extended on Tuesday (April 28) by Mayor Curry. City beaches starting Monday (May 4) will be open from 6 am to 8 pm.

Escambia County commissioners voted Tuesday (April 28) to re-open the county’s public beaches at Santa Rosa Island and Perdido Key on Friday, May 1. The beach under the Pensacola Beach Pier will remain closed as will beach pavilions and public restrooms.

The beaches will open 30 minutes before sunrise and close 30 minutes after sunset. All visitors and residents at the beach must follow social distancing guidelines of staying in groups of 10 or less and groups must be at least six feet apart from other groups.

Gov. DeSantis announced on Wednesday (April 29) that the state would re-open on Monday, May 4th but Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and Broward counties are excluded and will adhere to local orders. As part of the attempt to return to normal, elective surgeries may resume. In addition, restaurants and stores are free to welcome customers but can only operate at 25 percent capacity. Restaurants can offer outdoor seating as long as there is six feet between tables. Museums and libraries can also re-open, also at 25 percent capacity.

On Friday (May 8), the move to a “Phase 1” re-opening continued when Gov. DeSantis announced that Palm Beach County may move into the first phase on May 11. In addition, all of the state’s barbershops, hair salons and nail salons may re-open on  May 11 with enhanced safety protocols. Miami-Dade and Broward counties are targeted to re-open by May 18.

On Thursday (May 14), Gov. DeSantis announced that Miami-Dade and Broward counties can begin to reopen on Monday, May 18. The two counties join the rest of “The Sunshine State” in the “Phase 1” re-opening, which includes limited restaurants, warehouses, manufacturing and office buildings with some differences:

• Miami-Dade and Broward are the only counties in the state where stores and restaurants will be allowed to open at 50 percent 
• Beyond Broward and Miami-Dade counties, stores and restaurants were allowed to open at 25 percent capacity

On Friday (May 15) the governor announced that the entire state will move to a “full Phase 1” on Monday, May 18. Gyms and fitness centers will reopen and capacity for restaurants and retail will increase. The “Phase 1” procedures:

• Restaurants and retailers can up their capacity to 50 percent
• Museums and libraries will also be able to operate at 50 percent capacity
• Theme parks can submit reopening plans that need to be approved by local officials before reopening. 
• Movie theaters, however, which the White House included in its guidelines for Phase 1 reopening, will not re-open Monday

On Friday (May 22), the governor lifted all restrictions on youth activities, including athletics and summer camps, effective immediately.

The Walt Disney Compay announced on Wednesday (May 27) Orlando’s Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom them parks will re-open on July 11 and Epcot and Hollywood Studios will follow suit four days later. The parks will have the following safety measures in place:

• Installation of plexiglas at points of sale
• Suspension of parades, fireworks and other events that create crowds
• Contactless payments with Magic Bands and other cashless payment systems such as apple Pay and Google Pay
• Suspension of character “meet and greets.”

Seaworld will also re-open on July 11 and will take similar safety precautions. The park will technically “re-open” a day earlier when it holds an employee appreciation event.

Palm Beach County — one of the three counties along with Miami-Dade and Broward — left out of Gov. DeSantis’ announcement the state would move to “Phase 2” of reopening, requested and received permission on Friday (June 5) from the governor’s office to move to ”Phase 2.” However, stand-alone bars that serve only alcohol and no food, will not be permitted to re-open.

On Friday (June 26), Halsey Beshears, the secretary of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, posted on Twitter Friday selling and drinking of alcohol at bars will end immediately due to an increase in coronavirus cases. Just two weeks ago, Gov. Ron DeSantis gave the OK for bars to reopen after shutting them closed for two months.

With rising coronavirus cases being reported, county officials up and down the Atlantic coastline of the state announced beach closings for the July 4th weekend. Beaches in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe will not be open for the holiday weekend.

On Thursday (July 2),  Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez announced that starting Friday, July 3 the county will have a 10 p.m. curfew until 6 a.m. daily. due to the increase in COVID-19 cases. Essential workers including first responders, hospital workers, food delivery services and media will be exempted from the curfew.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Giménez has ordered restaurants to shutting down for dine-in service starting Wednesday July 8. In addition gyms, fitness centers, ballrooms, banquet facilities and party venues will have to shut down. While beaches were closed during the holiday weekend, the mayor said that they would re-open Tuesday (July 7), but warned   “If we see crowding and people not following the public health rules, I will be forced to close the beaches again.”

Georgia

Gov. Brian Kemp began reopening shuttered businesses for limited operations weeks after issuing a statewide shelter-in-place order. On April 24, fitness centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, barbers, cosmetologists, hair designers, nail care artists, estheticians, their respective schools, and massage therapists were given the green light to resume with strict safety measures in place. Days later, movie theaters and limited in-restaurant dining were also approved to reopen.

Churches and other houses of worship will also be permitted to offer in-person services but within the social distancing guidelines.In addition, elective surgeries that are “deemed essential” will be allowed to take place again.

Gov. Kemp’s original shelter-in-place order set to expire April 30 will not be extended. Elderly and medically fragile patients will have to abide by the order until May 13.

Starting Thursday, May 14, summer day camps will be allowed to operate if they can meet thirty-two minimum, mandatory criteria listed here. There will be no overnight camps and parents will also have to stay in cars when dropping off children who will be screened upon entering.

Gov. Kemp also announced restaurants can expand their operations to allowing 10 patrons per 300 square feet of public space inside of restaurants and dining rooms. The party size per table may also increase from six to 10 people.

On Thursday (May 28), the governor Kemp added more re-opening dates for businesses.  Starting June 1, the public gathering limit increases from 10 to 25 people if 6-foot distances can be maintained. As part of that increase bars and nightclubs can reopen with 39 mandatory measures—including the 25 person limit or 35 percent  occupancy Overnight summer camps can begin opening May 31 if they meet 33 specific criteria in addition to requirements for operating a non-critical infrastructure business Also on June 1, professional sports teams can operate under rules and guidelines of the various sports leagues. Amateur teams/organizations can operate under non-critical infrastructure guidelines. Amusement park ride operators, traveling carnivals, water parks, circuses and other temporary amusement rides can open June 12 if in compliance with 33 mandatory requirements in addition to all requirements for non-critical infrastructure businesses,

On Thursday (June 12), Gov. Kemp announced an a new order that loosens some restrictions, including allowing gatherings of up to 50 people and increasing bar capacity to 50 people starting June 16. Also, for movie theaters, starting June 16, there will no longer be a limit on the number of people who may sit together in a party.

In addition, effective immediately people 65 and older are no longer required to shelter in place unless they meet any of the following categories:

• Those persons who live in a nursing home or long-term care facility, including inpatient hospice, assisted living communities, personal care homes, intermediate care homes, community living arrangements, and community integration homes
• Those persons who have chronic lung disease
• Those persons who have moderate to severe asthma
• Those persons who have severe heart disease
• Those persons who are immunocompromised
• Those persons, of any age, with class III or severe obesity
• Those persons diagnosed with the following underlying medical conditions: diabetes, liver disease, and persons with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis.

Starting July 1, live event venues and convention centers can resume operations with some restrictions depending on the venue’s designation.

On Tuesday (July 7) the cities of Athens and East Point joined Savannah to became the first Georgia cities to require the use of face masks.

While local authorities in Atlanta, Athens, Avondale Estates,  Brookhaven, South Fulton, College Park, Decatur, DeKalb County, Doraville, East Point, Fairburn,  Hinesville, Rome and Savannah issued mask orders in recent days because of  the spike in the state’s coronavirus cases, Gov. Kemp has overruled local governments. On Wednesday (July 15)  he voided orders saying cities and counties had no power to order masks during the coronavirus pandemic.

To sharpen his point on Thursday (July 16), the governor and the state sued Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. The lawsuit claims the mayor exceeded her authority in issuing coronavirus-related orders that are more restrictive than the state’s orders.

On Tuesday (July 21), DeKalb County, which encompasses a portion of Atlanta has passed a mask requirement that subjects violators to a written warning for a first offense and a COVID-19 prevention class for secondary offenses, with a $250 fine for those who fail to show for the class. The order  also contains a “conscientious objector” provision that waives penalties for any person who swears in a written affidavit that is presented in court

Hawaii

Gov. David Ige signed a third supplementary proclamation on Monday, ordering the entire state to stay at home and work from home starting at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, Mar. 25 through Apr 30. Essential workers are exempt.

On Tuesday (March 30), the governor signed an executive order that requires all residents and visitors traveling between any of the state’s islands to self-quarantine for 14 days. The mandate takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on April. 1. In addition, anyone traveling inter-island to perform an essential function — including those providing and seeking medical care — will have to fill out and sign an Interisland Declaration Form. While performing these essential functions, travelers must also wear appropriate protective gear – primarily masks – and follow social distancing rules.

Noting that social distancing was not being adhered to, Gov. Ige on Friday (April 17) ordered the state’s more than 50 miles of beachfront across the state’s 15 islands closed. According to the announcement, “Under these new rules, all beaches are closed, which means no sitting, standing, lying down, lounging, sunbathing, or loitering on beaches and sandbars.  People can still cross beaches to access the ocean for outdoor exercise like surfing, solo paddling and swimming as long as social distances are maintained.”

Provisions for boating, fishing, and hiking were also included. The rules for these activities are:

• No more than two people are allowed on any boat in Hawaii’s water for recreational purposes, unless they are part of a single residential or family unit sharing the same address.  Both people on the boat are required to maintain physical distancing of six-feet from one another, as is reasonably possible. All boats are required to stay 20-feet from one another.
• Group hiking on state trails is not allowed unless all participants are part of a single residential or family unit sharing the same address. People who want to hike alone, but who want to have another person nearby for safety reasons, are required to maintain a distance of not less than 20-feet from each other.
• People can fish to gather food, but no groups of two or more people can engage in fishing in state waters or state lands unless all they are part of a single residential or family unit with the same address.

On Tuesday (May 5) Gov. Ige announced that the “Aloha State” would enter “Phase 1” of a re-opening plan starting Thursday, May 7. The following businesses and activities will be permitted to resume:

• Landscapers, ornamental plant growers, and nurseries
• Auto dealerships
• Car washes
• Licensed childcare services
• Pet groomers 
• Retail / repair services for apparel, florists, watch & surfboards repair with the exception of the City and  County of Honolulu until May 15, and no re-opening for Maui County).

Idaho 

Gov. Brad Little issued a stay-at-home order statewide on March 25. Residents must stay inside and avoid unnecessary travel. Non-essential businesses must all temporarily close.

The order by Gov. Little was extended on Wednesday (April 15)  through May 1.

With the order’s extension set to expire, on Thursday (April 30), the governor said the state would proceed with Stage 1 of its re-opening plan starting Friday. The plan includes:

• Places of worship, daycares, and organized youth activities and day camps can reopen as long as they follow protocols.
•  Employees are encouraged to continue teleworking, and employers should return employees to work in phases.
• Gatherings of any size, both public and private, should be avoided.
• Non-essential travel should be minimized or avoided.
• Dine-in at restaurants must remain closed, but pick-up and delivery options will still available. However, restaurants need to develop plans to rer-open for dine-in on May 16 for Stage 2.

On Thursday (May 14), Gov. Little announced the state will move to “Stage 2” of the state’s four-stage plan to reopen on Saturday, May 16, Restaurant dining rooms, gyms, fitness centers, barbershops and hair salons are permitted to re-open by adhering to the following protocols found here. The governor also announced that Idaho small businesses have a new online resource to access masks, gloves, and sanitizer. They can obtain a 30-day supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) for their employees and patrons at supplies.idaho.gov.

On Thursday (May 28), Gov. Little announced that the state is moving to “Phase 3” of the re-opening plan. Starting on Saturday, May 30, people are allowed to gather in groups of 10 to 50 people as long as social distancing is maintained. Bars can re-open, but nightclubs remain closed, except they can open as a bar if business protocols are met. Movie theaters — originally slated to re-open in mid-June — will also be part of the May 30 re-opening.

Illinois 

Gov. J.B. Pritzker ordered all state residents to remain in their homes except for essential reasons on March 21. The order was schedule to expire April 7, but on Tuesday, March 31, Gov. Pritzker announced he will sign a 30-day extension on April 1. In addition to “Stay at Home” directive, Illinois is extending the suspension of on-site learning in K-12 schools through the month of April.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Wednesday (April 8) ordered a 9 p.m. liquor sales curfew in an effort to stop people from congregating at stores and businesses that sell alcohol. The curfew will be in effect throughout the statewide stay-at-home order which lasts until April 30. Stores that break the curfew and sell liquor beyond the curfew could face fines of up to $500, arrest and possible the loss of the establishment’s liquor license.

Additionally, Chicago police officers are beginning safety checkpoints at 10 p.m. throughout the city to remind residents that the “stay at home order” is only for essential travel.

On Thursday (April 23), Gov. Pritzker issued a “modified” extension of his “stay at home” order which will go into effect on May 1. Under the new directive, some exceptions are allowed under the order:

• State parks will begin a phased re-opening. Fishing and boating in groups of no more than two people will be allowed. A list of parks that will be open on May 1 and additional guidelines can be found on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website here. Golf will be also be allowed permitted under strict safety guidelines and social distancing.

•  Garden centers, greenhouses and nurseries will re-open as essential businesses. Social distancing requirements must be followed and employees and customers need to wear a face covering. Animal grooming services may also re-open.
• Retail stores not designated as non-essential businesses may re-open to fulfill telephone and online orders through pick-up and delivery. 
•  Individuals over the age of two will be required to wear a face-covering or a mask starting May 1 when in a public place where they can’t maintain a six-foot social distance. Face-coverings will also be required in public indoor spaces. , such as stores.  
• Essential businesses and manufacturers will be required to provide face-coverings to all employees who are not able to maintain six-feet of social distancing, as well as follow new requirements such as occupancy limits and staggered shifts.  
• Colleges can begin to establish procedures for pick-up of necessary supplies or student belongings. Dormitory move-outs must follow public health guidelines, including social distancing.

On Thursday (April 30),  Gov. Pritzker issued an executive order requiring any individual over the age of two and medically able to tolerate a mask or a cloth face-covering (a mask or cloth face-covering) must wear one when in a public place and unable to maintain a six-foot social distance.

Starting May 29, restrictions will be eased under the state “Phase 3” outline Gov. Pritzker announced on Wednesday (May 20). This new steps include a 10 person gathering limit for all activities and impact the following areas:

• Bars and Restaurants — Will have the option to resume operations for outdoor seating only. Tables must be six feet apart and away from the sidewalks, masks and distancing measures for staff must continue to be followed, and other precautions and guidance will be issued.
• Outdoor Activities — All state parks will reopen with concessions but under the guidelines set for retail and food service businesses involving social distancings and sanitation.  Tennis facilities can re-open with Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) safety precautions and capacity limits. For golf, courses can allow foursomes out on the same tee times. Carts will also be permitted with one person per cart, or one immediate household per cart.
• Health Clubs — Gyms, fitness studios, etc can provide one-on-one personal training in indoor facilities and outdoor fitness classes of up to 10 people.
• Personal Care Services — Nail salons, tattoo shops, hair braiders, spas and barbershops, can open with state safety precautions and capacity limits.
• Retail — Stores can open their doors to in-person shopping with state safety precautions and capacity limits in place.
• However, the governor said, local governments retain the right to establish stricter restrictions in any areas.

On Friday (May 22), Gov. Pritzker announced the state’s plan for a gradual reopening of child care in Phases 3 and 4. Illinois is encouraging all of the currently closed licensed child care providers to reopen when their Region moves to Phase 3 to serve the many families who will be returning to work.

These newly reopened providers will have reduced capacity, of no more than 10 children per classroom, for the first 4 weeks. Once they have provided care safely for four weeks and have followed the new health, social distancing and sanitation routines and guidelines, they will be able to expand to larger group sizes, though not their full licensed capacity.

On Thursday (May 28): Gov. Pritzker noted that all four of the state’s health regions will move into “Phase 3” of the re-opening plan on Friday, May 29. The city of Chicago, however, will delay “Phase 3” entry until June 3 according to Mayor Lori Lightfoot.

The businesses and organizations permitted to resume operations are:

• Non-essential manufacturing
• Offices (remote work remains encouraged) 
• Retail businesses
• Barber shops and hair salons
• Gyms and fitness clubs for outdoor classes and one-on-one training
• State parks
• Houses of worship 

However, all must adhere to the state health department guidelines

On Friday (June 26),  indoor dining at restaurants, health and fitness, movie theaters, live theaters, museums and zoos moved in to “Phase 4” and expand or re-open with the following capacity limits:

• Meeting spaces and catering halls can resume with the lesser of up to 50 people or 50 percent of overall room capacity. Multiple groups are permitted given facilities have space to appropriately social distance and can limit interaction between groups. Theaters, cinemas, gyms, fitness centers and performing arts centers must also adhere to these guidelines. 
• Bowling alleys, skating rinks, clubhouses and like venues can re-open operating at the lesser of 50 customers or 50 percent of facility capacity with outdoor recreation facilities allowing group sizes of up to 50,
• Restaurants can reopen with groups of 10 or less, with tables spaced 6-feet apart in seated areas and withstanding areas at no more than 25 percent of capacity.
• Zoos and museums must have no more than 25 percent occupancy, and with interactive exhibits and rides closed; guided tours should be limited to 50 people or fewer per group; advance ticket sales are highly encouraged. 
• Day camps can resume but with no more than 50 percent of facility capacity and with group size capped at 15 participants in a single group. 

In the city of Chicago – the nation’s third-largest city — the city’s Department of Public Health Commissioner Allison Arwady, M.D., issued an Emergency Travel Order on Thursday (July 2) directing travelers entering or returning to the Windy City to quarantine for a 14-day period starting Monday July 6, if they have traveled from a state with an increase in COVID-19 cases. The states impacted so far include Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nevada, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah.

On Monday (July 20) with an increase in coronavirus cases mounting, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said starting Friday (July 24), bars must halt indoor operations, restaurants and bars must limit table sizes to six people and gyms must cap indoor classes.

Indiana 

Gov. Eric Holcomb issued a stay-at-home order until April 6. This applies to the entire state of Indiana except for those working for essential businesses or are doing an essential activity which includes health and safety, necessary supplies and services, outdoor activity, certain types of essential work, and to take care of others, according to the government.

On Thursday (April 9), with Holy Week and Passover underway, Gov. Holcomb issued orders for the gathering of religious services. Church buildings or any place of worship should be closed. Drive-in services are allowed as longs as:

• Attendees stay in their vehicles at all times.
• Attendees do not interact physically with staff and other participants in other vehicles.
• Cars are separated from every other parking spot or nine feet apar

On Friday (April 17), Gov. Holcomb announced the stay at home order, which was set expire on April 20 at 11:59 p.m., will be extended until May 1.

Gov. Holcomb announced the “Back On Track Indiana” plan on Friday (May 1) to safely open the economy in five stages. Holcomb said the state is already in the first stage. “Stage Two” will begin on May 4 except in Marion and Lake Counties which will start May 11. Cass County will enter the second stage on May 18. The rules for “Stage Two” are:

• Masks are recommended in public and when around other people
• Retail and commercial businesses can operate at 50 percent capacity;
• Mall common areas need to have just 25 percent capacity.

After one week of success in “Stage Two” the following rules will be in place:

• Hair salons and like establishments can operate by appointment only. 
• Restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity for dine-in service.
• Office workers can return to their jobs, however, people who can work from home are strongly encouraged to do so.

On Wednesday (May 20), Gov. Holcomb announced that the state except for three counties — Lake, Marion and Cass — will move to “Stage 3” starting on Friday, May 22. The three exempted counties will move to “Stage 3” on June 1. “Stage 3” restrictions include:

• Retail stores and malls may move to 75 percent of capacity while maintaining social distancing
• Mall common areas, such as food courts and sitting areas, are limited to 50 percent capacity
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit class sizes and equipment must be spaced to accommodate social distancing. Equipment must be cleaned after each use, and employees are required to wear face coverings
• Playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, and similar facilities may open with social distancing guidelines in place. Community pools may open according to CDC guidance
• Campgrounds may open with social distancing limitations and sanitation precautions
• Movie theaters may open at 50 percent capacity; some theater companies have identified specific hygiene and social distancing guidelines

Iowa 

Gov. Kim Reynolds began to ease restrictions during the last week of April, beginning with elective surgeries and farmers markets. Effective May 1, businesses including restaurants, fitness centers, and retail stores were allowed to reopen, although they are required to operate at 50 percent of normal capacity and adhere to social distancing, hygiene and public health measures.

For restaurants, the self-service of food — including buffets and salad bars — or drinks is prohibited. For fitness centers, any group activities or classes are limited to 10 or less.

Enclosed shopping malls will be permitted to re-open, also at 50 percent capacity. However play areas, lounge areas and food court dining areas will remain closed.

Gov. Reynolds also said any social events must continue to be limited to 10 people and while the limits on religious gatherings will be lifted in 77 counties, houses of worship must adhere to social distancing, hygiene, and public health measures. Libraries will also be allowed to re-open as long as they adhere to the 50 percent capacity rules

The lifitng of these restrictions apply to all counties except: Allamakee, Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Dallas, Des Moines, Dubuque, Fayette, Henry, Iowa, Jasper, Johnson, Linn, Louisa, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Tama, Washington, and Woodbury County.

All other existing closures are extended through May 15

At the beginning of April, Gov. Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Education announced that all school districts and nonpublic schools will be closed for the remainder of the school year.

On Wednesday (May 13), Gov. Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency, but allowing certain restrictions to ease starting Friday, May 15, such as permitting hair salons, barbershops, and massage and tattoo establishments to re-open with appropriate public health measures in place. In addition, restaurants, fitness centers, libraries, and race tracks can re-open in the 22 counties where they have remained closed.

The move to re-open continued on Wednesday (May 20) when Gov. Reynolds said movie theaters, zoos, aquariums, museums and wedding reception venues will be permitted to reopen under appropriate health measures in place, starting Friday (May 22).

In addition, restaurants that serve alcohol and bars will be allowed to re-open and have in-door or outdoor seating on beginning Thursday, May 28, under guidelines.

Effective June 1, Iowa public schools will be permitted to resume activities and learning including high school baseball and softball.  Also on that day swimming pools will be re-opened for lap swimming and lessons.

On Tuesday (May 26), Gov. Reynolds signed a new proclamation that permits additional activities starting  June 1. Businesses allowed to resume operations that day include:  Outdoor performance venues, casinos, bowling alleys, amusement parks, skating rinks, skate parks, outdoor playgrounds. Attendance is limited to 50 percent of the venue capacity and maintaining six feet of distance between those attending. This also allows practices, games, and competitions for youth and adult baseball, softball, and individual sports such as running, biking, swimming, tennis, and golf to resume with appropriate public health measures in place.

Kansas 

On March 28, Gov. Laura Kelly instituted a temporary, statewide stay-at-home order. The measure is slated to be in place until at least April 19. Residents are required to stay home except for the following essential activities:

• Obtaining food, medicine and other household necessities
• Going to and from work at a business or organization performing an essential function as identified in the Kansas Essential Function Framework
• Seeking medical care
• Caring for children, family members or pets, or caring for a vulnerable person in another location
• Engaging in an outdoor activity, provided individuals maintain a distance of six feet from one another and abide by the 10-person limitation on gathering size.

Travelers from Colorado, Louisiana  Florida, Washington, California, New York, New Jersey and Illinois must quarantine when they arrive in Kansas. On Tuesday, March 31, Smith, Chase and Mitchell counties issued the first orders for inter-state quarantine. Anyone who travels to from those three counties to the cities of Coffey, Douglas, Leavenworth, Johnson, Sedgwick, Shawnee and Wyandotte must comply with the 14-day quarantine upon their return.

On Tuesday (April 7) as Holy Week and Passover are about to begin, Gov. Kelly said places of religious worship and funeral homes were included among places banned from hosting gatherings of 10 people or more. However on Wednesday (April 8) the state’s Attorney General Derek Schmidt announced that “The governor’s new executive order restricting in-person religious gatherings as a COVID-19 countermeasure is sound public-health advice that Kansans should follow, but the order likely violates state constitutional and statutory protections for religious freedom and must not be enforced by arrest, prosecution, fines or imprisonment for worshiping,”

Gov. Kelly announced on Thursay (April 30) the outline of Phase 1 re-opening to take place on May 4. People are encouraged to wear cloth masks in public settings and to maintain social distancing when outside and not to socialize with groups of more than 10 people. However, high-risk individuals are advised to continue to stay home unless undertaking essential functions.

Employers are strongly encouraged to continue to have employees work via telework and gatherings in groups of more than 10 is not permitted,

On Thursday (May 14), Gov. Kelly announced that certain restrictions would be eased starting Monday, May 18. Barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors, tanning salons, gyms and fitness centers can re-open as planned but salons can only take customers by appointment only. Gym and fitness centers will not be allowed to hold group classes or use locker rooms for anything other than bathroom facilities. High school and college graduations can go forward, but only if indoor ceremonies are limited to 10 people at a time. Outdoor ceremonies are allowed, either with people 6 feet apart in a large space or as “drive-through” events in which families drive up to a stage, the graduate gets out, walks across and gets back into a car.

Gov. Kelly’s “Phase 2” was slated to go into effect on June 1, but on Tuesday (May 19) the governor moved the date up to May 22. Re-openings set for “Phase 2” include:

• Mass gatherings of no more than 15
• Non-tribal casinos
• Community Centers
• Organized sports facilities, tournaments, and practices.
• Movie theaters
• Museums.
• Recreational areas of restaurants (ie pool, darts, ping pong) 
• Organized sports facilities and tournaments. Any with concessions must not include self-service food or beverages

On Wednesday (May 20), Gov. Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency, but allowing certain activities and businesses to resume over the next 10 days.  Effective this Friday, May 22, the following can reopen:

• Movie theaters
• Zoos and aquariums 
• Museums
• Wedding reception halls with appropriate public health measures in place
• Swimming pools, but only for  lap swimming and swimming lessons

Starting Thursday, May 28, bars and other alcohol-related establishments that have been limited to carry-out and delivery will be permitted to reopen for indoor or outdoor seating and on June 1, summer school activities, including baseball and softball, can resume.

In an unexpected move on Tuesday (May 26), Gov. Kelly said Tuesday she is removing the executive order for the state’s reopening plan which had been in “Phase 2” — and said she was now hancing over “phase-in” decision to individual county health officials.

On Monday (June 29), Gov. Kelly signed Executive Order requiring that most Kansans in a public space must wear a mask, starting 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 3.

Kentucky 

Gov. Andy Beshear ordered on March 22 nonessential retailers to close. Three days later, the governor extended the order to “all non-life-sustaining businesses” as of Thursday (March 26) at 8 p.m. Exempted businesses include grocery stores, media, gas stations and hardware stores and media outlets. The sale of firearms and ammunition also is exempted.

On Wednesday (April 22) Gov. Beshear said that starting on Monday, April 27, in-person diagnostic ambulatory visits and pre-anesthesia testing will be allowed to resume.

With the opening up of healthserices, on Monday (April 27), the governor laid out a “Four Phase” plan for health care practitioners with “Phase 1” patients visiting health care clinics and medical offices; physical therapy settings, chiropractic offices and optometrists and dental offices.

Phase 2 will be instituted on Wednesday, May 6. At that time, outpatient surgeries and other invasive procedures can resume, though hospital and care facilities will have to meet strict guidelines. The following week on the 13th, “Phase 3” will begin with hospitals and care facilities undertaking non-emergency surgeries and procedures at 50 percent of their pre-COVID-19-era patient volume.

The final phase is being targeted for Wednesday, May 27 with the plan being for most of the restrictions on types of procedures and volume will be left to the individual facilities to determine.

On Wednesday (April 27), Gov Beshar announced the following business could open on specific dates:

May 11th

• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Vehicle or Vessel Dealerships
• Professional Services (50%)
• Horse Racing (No Fans)
• Dog Grooming/Boarding

May 20th

• Retail
• Houses of Worship

On Thursday (May 7), Gov. Beshear announced the second phase of the state’s re-opening, stating once again that all businesses should follow the state’s 10 rules of staying healthy at work  as they resume operations. Here is the schedule for “Phase 2” : re-openings:

• May 22 – Restaurants, with a limited capacity of 33 percent and outdoor seating
• June 1 – Movie theaters, fitness centers
• June 11 – Pubic and private campgrounds
• June 15 – Child care, with reduced capacity

On Monday (May 18), the governor announced several athletic, outdoors and recreation re-openings:

• June 1 — Auto/Dirt Track Racing, Aquatic Centers, bowling alleys, fishing tournaments, fitness centers, Kentucky State Park lodges, Salato Wildlife Education Center.
• June 11 — Kentucky Horse Park
• June 15 — Youth sports (low touch and outdoors).

On Thursday (July 9),  Gov. Beshear ordered that effective 5 pm Friday (July 10), the wearing of masks to protect against the spread of COVID-19 will be mandatory.

Louisiana 

Gov. John Bel Edwards is extending Louisiana’s stay-at-home order through May 15, saying some regions of the state haven’t shown enough progress to lessen widespread restrictions on businesses and public gatherings. But if the state’s rate of infections continues to decrease, the Democratic governor said he expects he will begin to loosen constraints on May 16. In the meantime, businesses are allowed to open and operate as long as their employees wear face masks or coverings, limit the number of people on-premises and enforce social distancing, Edwards announced.

Malls will remain closed but stores may open for curbside delivery. Additionally, restaurants will be allowed to open their outside seating areas although tableside service is temporarily prohibited.

Kindergarten through 12th grade will be closed for the remainder of the academic year. Distance learning will be in effect.

Edwards’ original stay-at-home order was issued on March 23. The order urges residents to stay inside except for necessary travel including grocery store runs, medical appointments, restaurants for take out only and to care for a family member or friend.

On Monday (May 11), Gov. Edwards said the state will move to “Phase 1” re-opening plan starting Friday (May 15). The “Stay at Home” order will be lifted and the following businesses may re-open:

• Gyms and fitness centers
• Barbershops and hair and nail salons
• Casinos
• Theaters
• Racetracks, but no spectators
• Museums, zoos, aquariums
• Bars and breweries with LDH food permits

All businesses must adhere to a 25 percent occupancy limit as well as sanitation guidelines and spacing for physical distancing.

On Monday (June 1), Gov. Edwards announced the state will move to “Phase 2” of reopening on June 5 and permit: .

• Businesses like restaurants, retailers and others that have been operating at 25 percent capacity to increase to 50 percent. 
• Bars can operate at 25 percent capacity of seated occupants
• Casinos can increase their operating capacity to 50 perecent capacity with 75 percent of gaming positions operating, pending approval by the state’s Gaming Control Board.

On Thursday (June 25),  Gov. Edwards announced that Louisiana will stay in “Phase 2” of re-opening for the next 28 days due to the number of COVID-19 cases and related hospitalizations that have risen in the state.

On Saturday (July 4),  “Phase 2” for restaurants and bars in New Orleans was scaled back because of of an increase in coronavirus cases. Bars will only serve customers at tables. Patrons will no longers be able to sit at bars in restaurants. In addition, venues that hold weddings, funerals and other events will be limited to 25 people.

One week after reducing re-opening plans in New Orleans, Gov. Edwards on Saturday (July 11) announced a mandatory mask requirement for Louisiana and ordered bars in the state closed to on-premises consumption.

On Tuesday (July 21), Gov. Edwards announced that he will extend Louisiana’s “Phase 2” order –  which includes a statewide mask mandate — for an additional two weeks. The order limits indoor social gatherings to 50 people and prohibits on-premises consumption of alcohol at bars.

Maine

On March 31, Gov. Janet Mills issued a series of mandates to protect the health and safety of the public. The measures included a “stay healthy at home” directive requiring people living in Maine to stay at home. Residents are urged to only leave their homes for essential reasons including reporting to an essential job or obtaining food, medicine and health care. Mills also prohibited the use of public transportation unless for an essential reason.

Prior to this notice, Mills urged large essential businesses to limit the number of customers allowed in stores at one time, enhance curbside pick-up and delivery services and implement physical distancing measures.

On Friday (April 3), Gov. Mills issued another executive order requiring everyone entering the state to self-quarantine for 14 days. Only workers for essential businesses are exempt. In addition, rentals lodgings including hotels, inns, weekly rental properties and campgrounds are ordered to close. Housing used by “vulnerable populations”, such as children in crisis health care workers or other workers deemed necessary to support “public health, public safety, or critical infrastructure” is exempt.

Gov. Mills on Tuesday (April 28) announced the state’s plan to re-open the state. Starting May 1, the prohibition on gatherings of more than 10 people continues, but the following businesses are permitted to  reopen:

•  Health care providers who must prioritize care for patients with time-sensitive conditions
•  Barbershops, hair salons and pet grooming establishments 
•  Remain-in-your-vehicle religious services
•  Drive-in movie theaters
•  Hunting and fishing; restricted use of golf and disc golf courses
• State parks, state-owned public land trails and historic sites
•  Auto dealerships
• Car washes

One month later on June 1, the gathering limit will rise to 50 people. With limitations, the following businesses can re-open:

•  Restaurants
•  Fitness and exercise centers
•  Retail stores
• Lodging and campgrounds for Maine residents and visitors who have met the 14-day quarantine requirement
• Day camps for Maine children and those who have met the 14-day quarantine requirement
• Coastal state parks
• Nail salons

Come July 1, gatherings of no more than 50 people remain in place. In addition, the following  businesses can reopen:

• Hotels, campgrounds, summer camps and RV parks for Maine residents and visitors. But reservations should not be placed until the state issues further guidelines.
•  Charter boats and other boating excursions
• Bars
• Personal services such as spas, tattoo and piercing parlors, and massage facilities.

On Friday (May 8), Gov. Mills announced adjustments to the first phase of his “Restarting Maine’s Economy” plan. Starting May 11, gyms and fitness centers originally slated for “Stage 2” will be permitted to open for outdoor classes of 10 or less. One-on-one personal training inside fitness centers will be also be permitted.

In addition, the governor outlined a plan for the re-opening of rural Maine. Under the plan, retail stores and restaurants will be permitted to open to in-store and some dine-in service – with enhanced safety precautions – in counties where community transmission is not present. Those 12 counties are Aroostook, Piscataquis, Washington, Hancock, Somerset, Franklin, Oxford, Kennebec, Waldo, Knox, Lincoln, and Sagadahoc.

On May 11, retail stores in these counties are permitted to open with added health and safety precautions such as restricting the number of customers in a store at one time, enhanced cleaning practices, and touch-free transactions.

On May 18: restaurants in these same counties are permitted to open as long as customers are physically distancing and employees follow enhanced hygiene and sanitation practices. In addition, remote campsites and sporting camps which offer canoeing, hiking, hunting or fishing, are also permitted to open with public health safeguards in these same counties, but only to Maine residents or those who have completed the 14-day quarantine.

On Tuesday (May 19), Gov. Mills announced that campgrounds and RV Parks will re-open for Memorial Day weekend, starting May 22nd with.enhanced health and safety precautions. Only Maine residents allowed. The state is also delaying the full re-opening of gyms and fitness centers, originally scheduled for June 1 for “Stage 2.” The change was made because of new studies raising concerns about the transmission of the virus in such settings due to large numbers of people in relatively small spaces with moist, warm atmospheres coupled with turbulent air flow generated by intense physical exercise. Gyms and fitness centers are currently allowed to conduct outside classes of less than 10 participants and one-on-one instruction inside. Nail salons are also being delayed from the June 1 date. Information from the State of California which identified these businesses as a source of COVID-19 community transmission has now put re-opening under review.

On Wednesday (May 27), Gov. Mills announced that in light of the most recent data her administration is postponing the full reopening of restaurants for dine-in services in York, Cumberland, and Androscoggin counties. Restaurants in these counties were tentatively scheduled to reopen to dine-in services on June 1 under “Stage 2” but are now restricted to reopening to outside dining service only beginning on that date in addition to continuing to provide take-away and delivery services.

“Stage 2” will otherwise move forward as planned with restaurants in Penobscot County allowed to re-open for both indoor and outdoor dining services with strict health and safety precautions, joining the 12 other rural counties — Aroostook, Piscataquis, Washington, Hancock, Somerset, Franklin, Oxford, Kennebec, Waldo, Knox, Lincoln and Sagadahoc — where such establishments have been permitted to reopen as part of the Governor’s rural reopening plan.

Additionally, on June 1, retail businesses in York, Cumberland, Androscoggin, and Penobscot counties – counties where these businesses have been closed to indoor shopping – will also be permitted to re-open with safety precautions. These businesses now join those in the other twelve counties permitted to reopen as part of the Governor’s rural reopening plan.

On Friday (May 29),  Gov. Mills signed an executive order that allows for the gradual easing of restrictions including gatherings increasing from 10 to 50 beginning June 1. In addition the next phase of the plan includes:  • Continues to require businesses to the extent practicable as determined by businesses to have their employees work remotely. • Continues but relaxes Maine’s “Stay Safer at Home” Order, which has Maine people stay-at-home with exceptions, allowing people to visit more businesses and participate in more activities as they reopen under the Restarting Plan. • Maintains previously established restrictions on use of public transportation, unless necessary for essential purposes, and continues to limit passengers in certain private vehicles. • Effective June 5 requires places of business accessible to the public to post readily visible signs notifying customers of the requirement to wear cloth face coverings where physical distancing is not possible, as many already have, and allows them to deny entry or service to a person not wearing a covering or who is exempt from doing so.

On Thursday (June 25), Gov. Mills said the re-opening date for indoor bar service, which was tentatively scheduled to resume on July 1 as part of “Stage 3” will be delayed until further notice.

Gov. Mills on Wednesday (July 8) issued an executive order – effective immediately – that requires businesses in Maine’s most populous cities — Bangor, Brewer, Lewiston, Auburn and Augusta — to enforce mask-wearing rules inside their premises. The order applies to large retail businesses, restaurants, outdoor bars, tasting rooms, and lodging establishments in Cumberland, York, Hancock, Waldo, Knox, Lincoln and Sagadahoc Counties.

Maryland 

Gov. Larry Hogan ordered nonessential businesses to close (March 23). The order does not affect essential businesses defined by the federal government, including health care, food and agriculture, energy, law enforcement and public safety.

As of  8 pm local time on March 30, the governor issued a new stay-at-home order prohibiting that state’s 6 million-plus residents from leaving home, except for “essential” trips such as grocery stores or pharmacies. In addition, Hogan said no Maryland resident should travel outside the state unless it’s “absolutely necessary” and that any resident who has recently traveled beyond Maryland’s borders to self-quarantine for 14 days.

On Wednesday (April 15) Gov. Hogan has issued another executive order requiring anyone in the state to wear masks or face coverings inside retail stores including supermarkets as well as on all forms of public transportation.

Barbershops and hair salons will be allowed to re-open, Gov Hogan announced on Monday (April 20) to serve employees of essential businesses such as first responders, military personnel, etc. Services can only be provided on an appointment basis and “the services performed must be necessary for the Customer to meet grooming standards established by the Customer’s Employer,” according to the order.

On Wednesday (May 6), Gov. Hogan announced a relaxation of some aspects of his “Stay at Home “order. Starting Thursday, May 7, elective medical procedures will be allowed to resume.

Also, effective Thursday, “safe” outdoor activities will be broadened to include: golf, tennis, boating, fishing, camping. Closed areas of state parks will be reopened, including all state beaches for walking and exercise, and playgrounds.

On Wednesday (May 13) Gov. Hogan announced that the “stay at home” order will be lifted at 5 p.m. Friday, May 15th, and be replaced by a “safer-at-home advisory.” When the order ends Friday retail stores may re-open with up to 50 percent capacity, but curbside service and delivery are highly encouraged; manufacturing may resume operations; barbershops and hair salons can open their doors again but only at 50 percent capacity and by appointment only.

Pet groomers, animal adoption shelters, car washes, and art galleries are also eligible to re-open. While houses of worship may hold religious services — utilizing social distancing and safety protocols — outside services are strongly encouraged.

On Wednesday (May 27), Gov. Hogan announced that starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 29, restaurants and social organizations such as the American Legion, Knights of Columbus etc can re-open for outdoor dining and outdoor activities. Dining cannot have more than six people per table.

In addition, drive-in movie theaters, youth sports and youth day camps may also re-open. Youth day camps may resume for outdoor activities with no more than 10 individuals in a group, daily COVID symptoms checks, mask requirements and no out of state or overnight campers will be permitted

Outdoor pools can re-open but at 25 percent capacity with physical distancing measures.

The 12 schools of Maryland’s university system — Bowie State University; Coppin State University; Frostburg State University; Salisbury University; Towson University; the University of Baltimore; the University of Maryland, Baltimore; the University of Maryland, Baltimore County; the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science; the University of Maryland, College Park; the University of Maryland Eastern Shore; and the University of Maryland Global Campus — announced on Friday (May 29) that for the fall semester each campus will offer a combination of on-campus, in-person instruction with remote learning.

Each campus will issue a timeline and firm plans in the days ahead. In addition all campuses will comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and will have in place certain critical safeguards, including the ability to:

• Obtain necessary PPE, testing kits, and other materials.
• Assess and monitor potential COVID-19 symptoms among students, faculty, and staff.
• Assist students, faculty, and staff with securing COVID-19 testing and treatment.
• Isolate residential students who contract the disease and quarantine those who are exposed to it.
• Coordinate contact tracing in conjunction with local health departments.
• Reduce density on campus, and enforce physical distancing in classrooms, residence halls, and dining halls.
• Clean campus buildings thoroughly and frequently, with an emphasis on high-touch surfaces.
• Continually review the effectiveness of these and other safety measures.

Massachusetts 

Gov. Charlie Baker ordered all non-essential businesses and organizations to temporarily close. Baker also directed the state’s department of health to issue a stay at home order. Residents are advised to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel and other unnecessary activities.

On March 25, Gov. Baker issued a second order extending the closure of public and private schools and non-emergency childcare programs until May 4th.

The list of essential services was updated on March 30, as Gov. Baker extended the emergency order for business closures until May 4. In addition, while the businesses are designated as essential, the governor’s order urged them “to follow social distancing protocols for workers in accordance with guidance from the Department of Public Health.” The updated list of categories for “essential businesses” are:

• Health Care/ Public Health / Human Services
• Law Enforcement, Public Safety, First Responders
• Food and Agriculture
• Energy
• Waste and Wastewater
• Transportation and Logistics
• Public Works & Infrastructure Support Services
• Communications and Information Technology
• Other Community-, Education-, Or Government-Based Operations And Essential Functions
• Critical Manufacturing

Details on the specific businesses included in these categories are available here.

On Tuesday, (April 7) following several supermarket employees being diagnosed with the virus, the governor’s office ordered that moving forward only 40 percent of a store’s occupancy can be filled at one time. That total will include both employees and customers.  On Wednesday (April 8) Gov. Baker said stores now have to put in place marked social distancing lines at checkouts to protect workers.

Schools were closed for the remainder of the academic year by Gov. Baker on Tuesday (April 21), but distance learning for students will continue.

The Bay State’s “stay at home” order was extended by Gov. Baker on Tuesday (April 28). All non-essential businesses must remain closed through May 18. The order was originally scheduled to end on May 4.

Joining a move made by other states, on Friday (May 1) Gov. Baker issued a new order requiring everyone in Massachusetts starting Wednesday, May 6 to wear a face-covering in public which includes in retail outlets, outdoors and on public transportation.

The state announced on Thursday (May 7) golf courses in Massachusetts can re-open, effective immediately. The only employees permitted to work on-site, will be groundskeepers and security, but they must wear face masks. No caddies, carts, or rental clubs will be allowed. Practice areas, restaurants and clubhouses must remain closed, and all facilities must provide access to hand sanitizers. Social distancing must be practiced and groups can be no larger than four. A complete list of rules is available here.

On Friday (May 15) Gov. Baker announced that the order closing non-essential businesses will be extended 24 hours, to Monday, May 18.

A four-part re-opening plan was unveiled by Gov. Baker on Monday (May 22). “Phase One” has two dates – May 18 and 25. There are no dates yet for the other phases, Here is the plan for “Phase One”  re-openings:

May 18

• Places of worship with guidelines and outdoor services are encouraged
• Essential businesses, manufacturing and construction
• Hospitals and community health centers can start with high priority preventative care and treatment for high-risk patients
• Public transit riders on the MBTA will be required to wear masks

May 25 

Personal services – hair salons, barbershops, pet grooming (curbside drop off/pick up) – all by appointment only

• Car washes, but exteriors only
• Offices (not in Boston) but must be less than 25 percent maximum occupancy and work from home strongly encouraged
• Retail for remote services and curbside pick up
• Beaches, parks, athletic fields and courts, fishing, hunting and boating
• Outdoor gardens – with guidelines
• Zoos and animal reserves – with guidelines
• Medical laboratories and life sciences facilities
• Daycare centers but only operating at reduced capacity and on an emergency basis for children of workers with no safe alternative to group care.

On Friday (May 29), Gov. Baker announced he’ll issue an order on June 1 which will allow professional sports teams to return to practice at their facilities in compliance with the health and safety rules that all the leagues are developing, and allows Phase 2 employers to bring back employees in preparation of reopening effective immediately.

In addition, Baker released guidance for restaurants and lodging permitted to open in “Phase 2” which he will announce the steps to implement on June 6. That guidance is as follows:

• Outdoor dining will begin at the start of “Phase 2”  with social distancing guidance to include spacing tables six feet apart with a maximum party size of six people. The use of bars, except for spaced table seating, will not be permitted. For hygiene protocols, utensils and menus should be kept clean through single use or with strict sanitation guidelines, reservations or call ahead seating is recommended and contactless payment, mobile ordering or text on arrival for seating will also be encouraged.
• Also, restaurants will be expected to follow cleaning and disinfecting guidelines, in accordance with CDC guidance. This includes closing an establishment temporarily if there is a case of COVID-19 in an establishment.

On Monday (June 1), Gov. Baker signed an executive order outlining which businesses can operate under the “Phase 2” re-opening which will begin on June 6.

Phase 2 Restaurant Guidance

• Outdoor dining will begin at the start of “Phase 2.”
• Indoor dining will begin later subject to public health data. Even when indoor seating is permitted, use of outdoor space will be encouraged for all restaurants.
• Social distancing guidance includes spacing tables six feet apart with a maximum party size of six people. The use of bars, except for spaced table seating, will not be permitted.
• For hygiene protocols, utensils and menus should be kept clean through single use or with strict sanitation guidelines, reservations or call ahead seating is recommended and contactless payment, mobile ordering or text on arrival for seating will also be encouraged.
• Restaurants will be expected to follow cleaning and disinfecting guidelines, in accordance with CDC guidance. This includes closing an establishment temporarily if there is a case of COVID-19 in an establishment.

Phase 2 Retail Guidance

• Each store must monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following: 8 persons (including store staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible, indoor space; or 40 percent of the retail store’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holders
• Stores for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may rely on the 8 persons per 1,000 square feet method
• Retailers or restaurants serving food and beverage may only provide take-out or delivery service ​
• Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible

Phase 2 Lodging Guidance

• Lodging safety standards apply to all forms of lodging including hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, short term residential rentals including Airbnb and VRBO.
• Event spaces, like ballrooms and meeting rooms, will remain closed.
• On-site restaurants, pools, gyms, spas, golf courses and other amenities at lodging sites may operate only as these categories are authorized to operate in accordance with the phased re-opening plan.
• Lodging operators also must inform guests of the Commonwealth’s policy urging travelers to self-quarantine for 14 days when arriving from out-of-state.

In addition, the following can also open with guidelines:

• Campgrounds, playgrounds and spray decks
• Public and community pools
• Youth sports in limited fashion
• Athletic fields and courts with guidelines

On Thursday (July 3), Gov. Baker and Mayor Marty Walsh of Boston, held a briefing in famed Fneway park to discuss “Phase 3” of the state’s re-opening plan. The governor said the first part of “Phase 3” will begin on Monday, July 6 and allow for gyms, museums and movie theaters to resume opereations. In addition professional sports teams will be allowed to play games without spectators.

However, the mayor and the govenror said the City of Boston will not enter “Phase 3” for another week on July 13.

Baker also said that limits on gatherings would be lifted to with 25 indoors and 100 outdoors on July 6.

 Michigan 

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide stay-at-home order. This means all non-critical Michigan businesses and operations must temporarily close, and residents must stay home and stay six feet away from others, according to the state department of health.

However, essential businesses will still be operating.

Gov. Whitmer extended her executive order on Thursday (April 9) for “Stay Home, Stay Safe” through April 30. In addition, there are new social distance rules for essential businesses such as grocery stores. Large stores now must limit the number of people in a store at one time with no more than four customers for every 1,000 square feet of customer floor space. Small stores must limit capacity to 25%, including employees.

All stores must also create “lines” with visible markings to place customers at least six feet apart from one another while waiting to enter or checkout. Stores that in addition to groceries or essential equipment also sell carpeting, flooring, furniture, garden centers, plant nurseries and paint must close those areas of the stores.

On Friday (April 24), Gov. Whitmer extended the state’s stay-at-home order through May 15. The governor’s extension does have some changes. Now, people are required to wear face coverings in enclosed public spaces and employers must provide coverings to all employees. Previously it was “recommended”

Using the social distancing rules, landscapers, lawn-service companies and bike repair shops will be allowed to return to business. Retailers selling non-essential supplies can re-open for curbside pickup and delivery.

On Thursday (April 30), the governor issued an order to extend business closures and the emergency declaration to May 28.

After announcing the extension, Gov. Whitmer issued another executive order on Friday (May 1) which allows for the resumption on May 7 of some types of outdoor work that present a very low risk of infection such as construction and real-estate. Under the order, construction sites must adopt practices that best protect their workers from possible infection such as:

• Designating a site supervisor to enforce COVID-19 control strategies.
• Conducting daily health screenings for workers.
• Creating dedicated entry points to ensure workers are screened every day.
• Using social distancing to avoid “choke points” that create high-risk areas.  
• Ensuring sufficient hand-washing or hand-sanitizing stations at the worksite

On Thursday (May 7), the governor extended the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order to May 28, but also said that manufacturing workers —  including those at the state’s Big 3 auto companies — can resume operations, starting Monday, May 11. The new executive order also states that all businesses require masks to be worn when workers cannot continually work in six feet of separation from co-workers and face shields should be used when workers can’t maintain three feet of separation from co-workers.

The move to re-open the state continued Monday (May 18) with Gov. Whitmer issuing an executive order impacting the northern part of the state. The governor said retail businesses, office work that cannot be done remotely, and restaurants and bars with limited seating to resume operations starting Friday, May 22. The counties impacted are: Manistee, Wexford, Missaukee, Roscommon, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Crawford, Leelanau, Antrim, Otsego, Montmorency, Alpena, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, and Emmet, known as Region 6.

In addition, Region 8 counties — Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Keweenaw, Iron, Baraga, Dickinson, Marquette, Menominee, Delta, Alger, Schoolcraft, Luce, Mackinac, and Chippewa — can also re-open the aforementioned businesses.

On Thursday (May 21), Gov. Whitmer signed an executive order to reopen retail businesses and auto dealerships by appointment statewide on Tuesday, May 26. In addition, the governor’s executive order also lifts the requirement that health care providers delay some nonessential medical, dental, and veterinary procedures statewide beginning on Friday, May 29. And the order authorizes small gatherings of 10 people or less starting immediately, as long as participants practice social distancing.

On Monday (June 1), Gov. Whitmer rescinded the stay-at-home order and signed an executive order moving the state to “Phase 4” of the re-opening, which includes:

Effective immediately: Groups of 100 or less may gather outdoors so long as they maintain strict social distances, office work that is not capable of being performed remotely may resume, outdoor fitness class may resume, drive-in movie theaters may reopen and in-home cleaning services may resume

Effective June 4, retail stores may re-open with capacity limits

Starting June 8, restaurants may re-open for outdoor and indoor dining subject to capacity limits. Also, day camps for children and pools may also reopen.

The Upper Peninsula and Grand Traverse City areas are the only locales to legally recevie a haircut. That will change on June 15 when the governor will allow all of the state’s hair salons, massage businesses and nail salons will re-open.

On Wednesday (July 1) Gov. Whitmer signed an executive order closing indoor service at bars throughout most of lower Michigan. Regions 6 and 8, which include the Upper Peninsula and much of northern Michigan, are excluded from the order, and bars statewide can continue to serve outdoors. The governor also signed a bill allowing cocktails-to-go at bars and restaurants.

Minnesota

Gov. Tim Walz issued a two-week “stay at home” order. The order will remain in effect until at least April 10 at 5 p.m. In the meantime, essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies, child care facilities, gas stations and liquor stores will continue to operate. However, bars, restaurants and “other public accommodations” will remain closed until at least May 1. Distance learning for students will stay in effect until at least May 4.

Two days short of the expiration of his original order, on April 8, the governor extending his “stay at home” order to May 4. The order still allows people to leave the house for groceries, gas, emergency medical services/supplies, caring for family members, friends or pets, etc. Workers in “critical sectors” — health care workers, emergency responders, law enforcement, shelters, child care facilities, food production, utilities, the news media and critical manufacturing — remain exempt from the order.

On Friday (April 17), Gov. Walz lifted some restrictions on outdoor activities. As long as people adhere to the “six-feet” social distancing guidelines, Minnesotans will now be permitted to participate at:

• Outdoor shooting ranges and game farms
• Public and private parks and trails
• Golf courses and driving ranges
• Bait shops for live bait
• Marina services
• Dock installation and other lake services
• Boat and off-highway vehicle sales and repair, but by appointment only.

On Thursday (April 23), Gov. Walz said schools would be closed for the rest of the scholastic year. His original order remains in place until May 4, but did say on Monday (April 27) there would be a limited re-opening of the state’s businesses. The plan according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development website calls for:

• Industrial — “Places of employment in which goods are in the process of being created.” This includes: agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, mining, construction, utilities, warehousing and manufacturers. All must practice social distancing. 
• Offices — “Places of employment in which workers do their work within an office space where people primarily do their work at their desk and whose work is primarily not customer-facing.” Companies will have to increase the spacing between workstations and reduce the “density of workers for each shift.”
• Retail — Shops and other non-critical businesses may begin offering curbside pick-up

In addition, all employers looking to resume operations must create a “COVID-19 Preparedness Plan” that sets out guidelines for social distancing, worker hygiene, building cleaning, and disinfection.

Mississippi 

Gov. Tate Reeves issued a shelter-in-place order on Wednesday (April 1) that will go into effect on Friday at 5 pm local time and remain in place until 8 a.m. on April 20. The order mirrors directives of other states including barring Mississippians from leaving their homes except to perform essential activities, such as caring for a member of the vulnerable population and getting food and supplies. Outdoor recreation is permitted but not group activities such as soccer or basketball. In addition, all nonessential businesses are to stop activities other than those what is necessary for minimum operations (e.g. payroll, health insurance, security) and all business should enable employees to work from home.

New executive orders were issued on Friday (April 10) by Gov. Reeves which suspends the requirement that businesses hold in-person shareholder meetings before June 30 and restricts all non-essential elective surgeries through April 27.

The order to shelter-in-place was extended for another week by Gov. Reeves on Friday (April 17). The original order was scheduled to expire following the weekend. Now the order is slated to end on Monday, April 27. It was also announced that nonessential businesses such as clothing stores and florists, will be allowed to offer curbside pick-up, delivery or drive-thru sales starting on Monday (April 20). Limited activitiy as lakes and beaches will be also allowed such as:

• Recreational boating with appropriate social distancing
• Boating but the number of persons in each watercraft is limited to 50% of the occupancy limit
• Fishing with appropriate social distancing requirements

On Friday (April 24) the governor extended the safer at home order through May 11. However, some restrictions are being lifted or amended including:

• When outside of their homes, people must follow social distancing guidelines by maintaining a 6-foot distance from others and avoid groups of 10 or more.
• Social and other non-essential gatherings in groups of more than 10 people must be canceled or rescheduled.
• Certain businesses previously closed under the shelter-in-place are allowed to re-open, while following health and safety mandates recommended by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH).
• Movie theaters, museums, hair salons, fitness centers remain closed
• Restaurants and bars may only remain open for drive-thru, curbside pick-up, and/or delivery service.
• Retail businesses are to implement reasonable measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including limiting the number of customers in their stores at one time to no greater than 50% of their store capacity and making hand sanitizer available to customers upon entry.
• Healthcare professionals and facilities may resume performing elective medical and dental procedures and surgeries as allowed and approved by MSDH. Such non-emergent procedures and surgeries should limit their use of disposable PPE and not request PPE from any public source.

On Monday (May 4), Gov. Revees announced a plan for new guidelines that will go into effect at 8:00 AM on Thursday (May 7) as a “run-up” to the Safer at Home order which remains in effect until May 11. The new guidelines for restaurants and recreation areas include:

• Before in-house dining can resume at restaurants the entire business — dining area, bar, kitchen — must be thoroughly deep-cleaned, disinfected, and sanitized. 
• All restaurant employees will be screened daily at the beginning of their shifts, including asking whether they have been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the past 14 days and have they had a fever in the last 48 hours.
• Cloth masks must be provided to all restaurant employees who come in direct contact with customers. Employees are required to wear that mask throughout their shift.
• No more than 50 percent seating capacity in both indoor and outdoor dining areas, and floor plans must be updated to ensure at least 6 feet between each group. Party sizes will be limited to no more than 6 people per table.
• Bars and bar areas that do no offer food services are to remain closed.
• Cafeteria-style buffets and food stations that are manned by restaurant staff are allowed with appropriate barriers to limit contact. Self-service buffets, food stations, and drink stations are prohibited.
• All restaurants and bars must place hand sanitizer at all entrances, hostess stations, in/near bathrooms, and at cashier stations.

RECREATION AREAS:

• Gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people for indoor activities and a maximum of 20 people for outside activities.
• Hours for parks are 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM for outdoor recreation under guidance from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks and local authorities, with people following social distancing guidelines such as 6 feet separation. Outdoor aactivities, such as swimming, are allowed. 

You can view the signed version of Executive Order No. 1478 here.

On Friday (May 8), Gov. Reeves extended his “Safer at-Home”  order, which will now run until 8 a.m. on Monday, May 25. In addition, he said that hair salons, barbershops and gyms may begin to reopen Monday, May 11. The rules for salons and barbershops in order to reopen includes:

• Before they can reopen, the entire salon or barbershop must be deep-cleaned, disinfected, and sanitized. After opening, salons and barbershops must be deep-cleaned daily.
• All salons and barbershops are expected to take every step necessary to implement the regulations, orders, and guidance from the Mississippi State Department of Health and CDC to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• and sanitizer must be placed at all entrances.
• Mobile or online reservations, as well as contact-less payment, is encouraged.
• Salons and barbershops must post signage at each entrance stating no customer with a fever or COVID-19 symptoms are allowed in.
• Customers should be seated least 6 feet apart and chairs should be sanitized after each use by a customer.
• Only one customer per employee is allowed in the salon or barbershop at any given time.

For gyms and fitness centers, regulations include:

• Before gyms can reopen, they must be deep-cleaned, disinfected, and sanitized. After opening, gyms must be deep-cleaned daily.
• All gyms are expected to take every step necessary to implement the regulations, orders, and guidance from the Mississippi State Department of Health and CDC to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• Gyms must close to the public by 10:00 PM each day.
• Gymn staff must have at least one dedicated employee onsite daily during hours of operation whose sole assignment is wiping down equipment after each use.
• All high-touch areas must be sanitized at least once every two hours.
• Exercise machines and equipment must be rearranged and/or deactivated to ensure at least 6 feet between customers.
• Gyms must post signage at each entrance stating no customer with a fever or COVID-19 symptoms are allowed in.
• Hand sanitizer must be placed at all entrances and throughout the gym floor.
• All common areas must remain closed.

On Friday (May 15), Gov. Reeves granted tattoo parlors the ability to re-open effective immediately but are subject to the aforementioned strict guidelines of other personal services businesses such requiring customers wear a mask at all times. Tattoos and piercings around the mouth are not permitted.

In addition, casinos will be allowed to re-open as of 8 am on May 21. Mississippi Gaming Commission Executive Director Allen Godfrey said details about restrictions to keep customers and employees safe will be released later.

On Thursday (July 9), Gov. Reeves is tightening restrictions in certain areas because of an uptick in coronavirus cases. Effective immediately in 13 counties — Hinds, DeSoto, Madison, Harrison, Rankin, Jackson, Washington, Sunflower, Grenada, Claiborne, Jefferson, Wayne and Quitman — no more than 10 people can gather indoors and no more than 20 people can gather outdoors in these counties. Citizens must also wear masks when at businesses and at public gatherings.

With an increase in coronavirus cases Gov. Reeves ordered on Monday (July 20) 10 more counties that must adopt mask. The new counties are: Bolivar, Covington, Forrest, Humphreys, Panola, Sharkey, Simpson, Tallahatchie, Tate, and Walthall.

 Missouri

Gov. Mike Parson issued an order for social distancing statewide meaning every person in the state must avoid social gatherings of more than 10 people. Residents are bared from dining at restaurants and or bars and are prohibited from entering nursing homes, long-term care facilities, retirement homes, or assisted living homes “unless to provide critical assistance,” Gov. Parson tweeted.

Additionally, the state’s largest cities, Kansas City and St. Louis, have implemented stay-at-home orders slated to take effect this week.

On Thursday (April 9), Gov. Parson ordered that all public and charter schools were to remain closed for the remainder of this school year.

In St. Louis County, Sam Page, the county executive announced Thursday (April 16) on Twitter that  the “stay-at-home order will be extended for now and I will revisit it in mid-May.” In addition, the City of St. Louis, Mayor Lyda Krewson’s order was supposed to expire on April 22. The mayor is also extending the directive but has not determined a new date. Following the decision by city and the county, Gov. Parson’s said he is extending the state-wide order through Sunday, May 3rd.

On Wednesday (April 22) Gov. Parson said the state economy would re-open on May 4 but did not offer details. However, his decision does not change the situation for the state’s two largest metropolitan areas, which have longer orders in place. Kansas City’s directive runs until May 15. St. Louis City and County have extended theirs indefinitely.

Gov. Parson announced on Monday (April 27) that all businesses and social events will be allowed to re-open in seven days as long as residents and business owners practice proper social distancing. Still local governments will be able to impost stricter limitations if local officials deem it necessary. Kansas City’s “stay at home” order will reman in place until May 15.

The re-opening will also allow for the return of elective surgeries at hospitals.

Montana  

Gov. Steve Bullock issued a stay at home order for the state on Thursday (March 26) and it will take effect at 12:01 a.m. local time on March 28 and last until April 10. The former Democratic presidential candidate on Tuesday had ordered the closing of schools and restaurants and restricted people from gathering in groups of 10 or more.

With the new directive, Montanans can leave hope for medical-related purposes, to obtain groceries and supplies, to care for family members or friends and to perform work providing essential products and services.

Starting Sunday, April 26, houses of worship reopened and Gov. Bullock said on April 27, on Monday, May 4, restaurants and bars couldre-open with the following rules in place: all must close by 11:30 p.m. every night; patrons must adhere to strict physical distancing guidelines, normal capacity must be reduced by half and all table should be kept 6 feet apart.

On Thursday (May 7), the state announced that schools will have the option to return to in-classroom teaching delivery at the discretion of local school boards.

Gov. Bullock annouced on Wednesday (July 15) that face masks be worn in indoor spaces in all counties in Montana with at least four active COVID-19 cases.

Nebraska 

While there is no statewide stay-at-home in place, there has been a shutdown of certain businesses to promote coronavirus mitigation. On Monday (April 20), Gov. Pete Ricketts announced that starting on Monday, May 4, elective surgeries may resume as long as hospitals and healthcare facilities meet requirements for available bed capacity and have adequate supplies of personal protective equipment; maintain a 30 percent general bed availability, 30 percent ICU bed availability and 30 percent ventilator availability,

In addition, the governor said places of worship starting Monday, May 4 must ensure six feet of separation between different household units attending services and items such as collection plates can be passed among worshippers.

Beauty salons, nail parlors, barbershops, massage therapy services, and tattoo establishment in specified districts will be allowed to reopen, subject to a limit of 10 people at one time. In addition, restaurants will be allowed to serve dine-in customers if all of the following conditions are met:

• The restaurant limits seating to 50 percent of the rated maximum occupancy 
•  All tables must be at least six feet apart.
• Dining parties are restricted to no more than six persons 
• Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited.
• Bar seating is not permitted.
• Patrons may only consume alcohol on the premises if also consuming a meal.

Nevada 

A travel advisory was issued Wednesday (April 1) by Gov. Steve Sisolak urging visitors or returning Nevadans to self-quarantine and monitor their health for 14 days after arriving or returning to Nevada. This advisory does not apply to healthcare, public health, public safety, transportation, and food supply essential employees.

On Thursday (May 7), the governor announced a re-opening of most non-casino businesses.

• Facial coverings will be mandatory attire for all employees of reopening businesses, which include the following:
• Restaurants and other food-serving establishments — Dine-in is permitted under strict social distancing requirements. Tables need to be six feet apart. No self-service food stations are allowed. Capacity is limited to 50 percent of available seating. Reservations are required – no walk-ins allowed. Bar areas must remain closed and waiting patrons must remain outside.
• Barbershops, hair and nail salons —  Partitions or walls between workstations in addition to six-foot minimum distances. Services will be by appointment only. Waiting customers are not allowed in stores.
• Retail businesses — Store occupancy limited to 50 percent of capacity. These include appliance, furniture and home furnishing showrooms.
• Malls: Open-air malls may open with strict social distancing requirements. Indoor malls may establish outdoor curbside or pick-up operations.
• Automobile/Vehicle dealerships – Appointments are encouraged, unaccompanied test drives for customers/household members only; showroom capacity limited to 50 percent.
• Drive-in theatres may resume operations
• Marijuana dispensaries — In-store sales permitted after submitting a plan and receiving approval from the Marijuana Enforcement Division. No more than 10 customers or 50 percent of allowed occupancy.

On Tuesday (May 26), Gov. Sisolak announced that Nevada is ready to move into “Phase 2” of the state’s re-opening plan on Friday, May 29

Businesses that will be allowed to open include:

• Gyms, health clubs and fitness facilities. Larger gyms are capped at 50 percent occupancy and must keep all locker rooms closed as well as showers, steam rooms or communal facilities. Equipment and individuals must be spaced six feet apart
• Bars and taverns that don’t serve food, including bars in restaurants, as long as they don’t exceed 50 percent capacity. Patrons are not allowed to walk up and order at bars, but can sit at bar tops as long as they remain six feet apart
• Hair salons or other businesses that provide aesthetic or other skin services, including “facials, hair removal, tanning, eyelash services, eyebrow threading, salt therapy, estheticians, and other services.” They’re required to operate under an appointment-only model, and must operate under similar guidelines as hair and nail salons, including having a wall between workstations and have employees and customers wear face coverings
• Day and overnight spas but without open steam rooms, saunas or other communal facilities
• Massage services, body art and piercing establishments but only by appointment. No body art or piercings may be done around the nose or mouth to ensure that face coverings are worn at all times.
• Aquatic facilities, swimming pools and water parks, limited to 50 percent capacity with no opening of communal facilities
• Museums, art galleries, zoos and aquariums, with no interactive or hands-on equipment allowed
• Movie theaters, bowling alleys, mini-golf, amusement parks and indoor malls, with restrictions on occupancy and limits on areas where people can congregate

On Wednesday (May 27), Wynn Resorts announced its two hotels and casinos on “The Strip” — The Ecnore and The Wynn — will fully re-open on June 4. The following safety measures will be in place at both properties:

• Non-invasive thermal temperature checks and face coverings provided at all entrances
• Automatic hand sanitizer stations, UV Technology, and electrostatic sprayers will be utilized throughout the resort
• Sealed guest rooms after meticulous sanitization by Wynn’s professional housekeeping staff    
• Amenity kits including sanitizing wipes, hand sanitizer, and face coverings in each guest room
• A dedicated team of cleaning professionals sanitizing public guest areas 24 hours a day

Shortly after Wynn’s announcement, MGM Resorts said the Bellagio, New York-New York, MGM Grand Las Vegas and The Signature casinos and hotels would re-open the same day. The company had recently released a “Safety Plan,” designed in conjunction with medical and scientific experts to mitigate the spread of the virus and protect customers and employees. Key aspects of that plan are:

• Employee screenings, temperature checks and COVID-19 specific training.
• COVID-19 testing offered to employees 
• Employees will be required to wear masks; Guests are strongly encouraged to wear masks, and in some settings where physical distancing is more difficult and/or barriers do not exist, will be required to do so.  Examples of where masks will be required include salons, certain table games where physical barriers are not in place and elevators. Masks will be provided, free of charge.
•  Standalone handwashing stations designed by MGM Resorts conveniently located on casino floors
• Contactless Check-In through the MGM Resorts App will allow hotel guests to go through the check-in process on their personal devices, minimizing interactions
• Guestroom Attendants will wear masks and gloves while cleaning each room and will change gloves between guestrooms
• Social distancing of based on CDC guidance will be implemented and electrostatic sprayers will be utilized in many large public spaces so that disinfectant is applied efficiently
• Digital menus will be available to view on personal mobile devices via QR codes in the company’s food and beverage outlets
• To minimize the assembly of groups waiting for tables restaurant guests will receive text message notifications when their tables are ready

On Friday (May 29), Caesars Entertainment announced Harrah’s Las Vegas will resume operations on June 5. It joins sister casinos Caesars Palace, Flamingo Las Vegas and selected LINQ Promenade outlets which will open on June 4. According to a press release, the “casino resorts will be offering a variety of food and beverage amenities, access to their outdoor pools, as well as slot machines and table games on the casino floors. The Company intends to comply with all reopening and operating directives from Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak, the Nevada Gaming Control Board, and public health authorities.”

On Wednesday (June 24), Gov. Steve Sisolak signed a directive requiring all people to wear face coverings while in public — includiing all casino facilties.

New Hampshire 

Gov. Chris Sununu issued a stay-at-home order for all residents and directed all nonessential businesses, that have not already voluntarily done so, to halt in-person operations. Residents are allowed to leave for essential purposes only.

On Friday (May 1) Gov Sununu announced a modified stay-at-home order to run through May 31, which allows for a phased approach to reopening the economy.

Industries that can begin to phase-in services on May 4, 2020:

•  Health care services

Industries that begin to phase-in, or expand services on May 11:

• Retail stores
• Drive-in movie theater
• Golf courses
• Barbershops and  hair salons

Industries that can begin to phase-in, or expand services on May 18, 2020:

• Restaurants, but those with outdoor dining only 

On Friday (May 22) Gov. Sununu announced the following businesses can re-open starting June 1:

• Acupuncturists
• Massage therapy centers
• Tattoo shops
• Tanning salons
• Nail salons
• Seacoast beaches

New Jersey 

Gov. Phil Murphy signed an executive order that directs all residents to stay at home. All non-essential retail businesses were also ordered to temporarily close their doors.

Additionally, Gov. Murphy suspended all elective medical and dental surgeries and invasive procedures. Certain low-level offenders will also be released from county jails to prevent the spread of the virus within the corrections system, according to a tweet by Gov. Murphy.

On Tuesday, March 24, the Garden State’s chief executive announced the state has applied for a federal waiver to cancel April’s standardized testing for students.

Schools were ordered by Gov. Murphy on Thursday (April 16) to remain closed through May 15.

In one of the first moves towards re-opening, on Wednesday (April 29), the governor announced he will sign an executive order to reopen state and county parks as well as allowing golf courses to reopen starting Saturday, May 2.

On Wednesday (May 13), Gov Murphy announced that non-essential construction and non-essential retail stores could resume Monday, May 18 at 6 am, with conditions. In addition, the Garden State will permit drive-through and drive-in events under social distancing at the same day. The conditions are:

• For constructions —  Work may only resume with safeguards: no overcrowding and workers must wear face coverings. There should be a clear posting of safety protocols; non-essential visitors are prohibited and work hours / breaks need to be staggered. 
• For retail — Curbside pick-up only and no customers are allowed inside non-essential retail stores
• Drive-in services or events — All participants MUST remain in their cars. Sunroofs must remain closed

On Thursday (May 14) Gov. Murphy signed an executive order allowing beaches, boardwalks, lakes, and lakeshores to open with social distancing measures starting Friday, May 22. However, no water fountains, picnic areas, playgrounds, pavilions, indoor recreational facilities, or visitor centers will be open. Bathrooms, showering areas, and changing areas will open.

• Local commissions, associations and authorities will:   
• Imposing non-discriminatory capacity restrictions;
• Requiring that members of the public practice social distancing;
• Developing and implementing lifeguard training and beach operation plans that address COVID-19 considerations
• Prohibit the tying together of boats to prevent group gatherings;
• Prohibit special events such as festivals, concerts, fireworks, and movies;
• Prohibiting all organized or contact activities or sports;
• Install physical barriers between the public and employees in ticket or beach badge sale booths.
• Limit occupancy of ticket or beach badge sales booth to one person at a time.

On Tuesday (May 19), Gov. Murphy provided good news for those looking to buy new cars. In-person auto sales will resume on May 20 at 6 a.m. The re-opening also applies to motorcycle dealerships and bicycle shops.

As the Memorial Day Weekend was getting underway, Gov. Murphy signed an executive order to lift the limit on outdoor gatherings from 10 to 25 individuals; Additionally, recreational campgrounds – both public and private – are allowed to reopen, effective immediately. Capacity will also be raised to 25 individuals for:

• Charter and fishing boats
• Outdoor batting cages
• Driving ranges   

On Tuesday (May 26): Gov. Murphy announced that schools will be able to hold outdoor graduation ceremonies, effective July 6; Additionally, the governor said that “professional sports teams in New Jersey may return to training and even competition – if their leagues choose to move in that direction.”

The Office of the Secretary of Higher Education on Wednesday (May 27) published graduation guidance for institutions of higher education that outline considerations for drive-in/drive-through and modified in-person graduation ceremonies beginning on July 6, 2020. Details for those ceremonies can be found here.

Gov. Murphy announced on Friday (May 29) that child-care services can resume on June 15, organized sports practices on June 22, and youth day camps, including municipal summer rec programs on July 6.

Horse racing can also resume immediately but without fans.

On Monday (June 1),  Gov. Murphy announced a phased-in start of “Stage 2” will begin on June 15, which is when outdoor dining at restaurants and non-essential in-person retail can resume. A week later on June 22, hair salons, barbershops and swimming pools can re-open. Other dates for “Stage 2” re-openings are:

• June 29: Motor Vehicle Commission agencies begin to offer behind-the-wheel road tests and resume issuing new licenses and permits.
• June 29: Indoor portions of retail shopping malls reopen. However, indoor entertainment businesses, like movie theaters or arcades, will remain closed.
• July 2: Casinos reopen.
• July 2: Indoor dining reopens.
• July 2: Outdoor playgrounds, outdoor amusement parks, and outdoor water parks reopen.
• July 2: Museums, libraries, aquariums, and indoor recreational facilities reopen at limited capacity.
• July 3: Limit on outdoor gatherings increases to 500 people (anticipated).
• July 6: Youth day camps and summer programs can operate.
• July 6: Modified outdoor graduation ceremonies begin.

In conjunction with the governors of New York and Connecticut, Gov. Murphy announced on Wednesday (June 24) a joint incoming travel advisory for all individuals traveling from states with significant COVID-19 spikes will be asked to quarantine for 14 days. The edict applies to any person arriving from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents over a 7-day rolling average or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average.

On Monday (June 29), Gov. Murphy said that plans to allow indoor dining to resume on Thursday. July 2, would be postponed “indefinitely.”

In conjunction with New York and Connecticut to protect the tri-state area from seeing increases in COVID-19 cases, the state on Tuesday (June 30) began requiring self-quarantine for travelers from: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nevada, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.

The travel advisory applies to those arriving from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents over a 7-day rolling average or a state with a 10 percdent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average. Essential workers are exempted.

On Wednesday (July 8), Gov. Murphy issued an executive order  which requires individuals to wear face coverings in outdoor public spaces when it is not practicable to socially distance and keep a six-foot distance from others.  The governor also reiterated the state’s policy of requiring face coverings in indoor spaces that are accessible to the public.

On Tuesday (July 21), New Jersey, Connecticut and New York updated the tri-state quarantine restriction list to include:  As of Tuesday, individuals traveling from Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, North Carolina, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, bringing the total to 31 states.

New Mexico 

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced the state is under a stay-at-home order. All residents are instructed to stay at home except for “essential” outings.

On Thursday (April 30), the state’s emergency public health order was extended through May 15; However, the order was amended to allow for partial reopenings starting Friday (May 1) for the following:

• Non-essential retailers may provide curbside pickup and delivery services if permitted by their business license.
• State parks on a modified basis, depending on staffing. Camping and visitor centers will remain closed. 
• Federally licensed firearm retailers by appointment only with background checks to allow individuals to take possession of firearms ordered online.
• Golf courses, but no dine-in or retail service.
• Pet services – Veterinarians, grooming, adoptions daycare and boarding 

On Thursday (June 25), due to coronavirus case increases Gov. Grisham said there would be a delay of the state moving to a “Phase 2” re-opening. “Phase 2” would have included movie theaters, bars and casinos. In addition, the governor urged residents to wear masks and said if people continue to not wear masks, police could issue citations.

With an increase in cases, Gov. Grisham annouonced on Monday (July 13) new restrictions on indoor seating at restaurants and breweries, a statement from her office said. Indoor dining at restaurants had been allowed with limits since June 1 but that is now prohibited. Breweries were permitted to have customers inside as of June 15.

New York 

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced sweeping orders requiring workers in nonessential businesses to stay home. Additionally, nonessential gatherings of people of any size or for any reason are canceled or postponed, including parties and celebrations.

“It is incumbent on all of us, young and old, and especially the young, who might think they are invincible, to stay the heck indoors,” said New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot.

Noting that he’s “talked about this for weeks,” Gov. Cuomo announced Wednesday (April 1) that he was ordering all New York City playgrounds shut down. The governor said at several press briefings that he has seen too many people in parks not practicing “social distancing” and group gatherings. Said Cuomo, “I warned people.”

While plotting to re-open the state, Gov. Cuomo announced Wednesday (April 15) that New Yorkers or visitors to the state will be required to wear a mask or face covering. The order includes the New York transportation system. The Chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Patrick Foye, said “Pursuant to the Governor’s Executive Order, all customers will be required to wear a face-covering while traveling with us during this pandemic, effective Friday April 17.”

The state-wide “stay at home” — originally planned to end on April 29 — was extended by Gov. Cuomo on Thursday (April 16) until May 15. At a press conference, Cuomo said,  “What happens after then? I don’t know,” adding that it will all depend “on what the data shows.”

In New York City, the 24-hour subway systems, starting May 6, will close daily between 1 am and 5 am, Gov. Cuomo announced Thursday (April 29). The city’s 472 stations will close in order for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to disinfect trains and stations.

On Friday (May 1), Gov. Cuomo announced that all schools would not re-open this academic year.

Plans for the hardest-hit state by the coronavirus to re-open were revealed by Gov. Cuomo on Monday (May 11) with three regions of the state — the Finger Lakes, Southern Tier and Mohawk Valley — starting to return to “normal” on Friday (May 15). “Low-risk” businesses that can reopen are: Limited construction, manufacturing and curbside retail. Landscaping and gardening businesses can also resume operations. Drive-in movie theaters can also return. All must ensure social distancing guidelines.

As temperatures touched the high 70s on Friday (May 15) with summer looming, Gov. Cuomo announced that beaches would be allowed to open in time for the Memorial Day weekend. State and municipal beaches throughout the state will be allowed to open the Friday before the holiday, May 22nd, but with restrictions including: Capacity limited to no more than 50 percent of normal with limited parking Group activities will not be allowed. Picnic areas and playgrounds will stay closed. Employees need to wear masks.

On Monday (May 18), Gov. Cuomo announced that Western New York has met all seven metrics required to begin phase one of the state’s regional phased reopening plan starting May 19. Western New York is the sixth region to meet the required seven metrics, joining the Central New York, North Country, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier and Mohawk Valley Regions.

On Tuesday (May 19), Gov. Cuomo announced that the Capital Region has met all seven metrics required to begin “Phase One” of the state’s regional phased reopening plan starting May 20, joining the other regions previously given permission to re-open. The governor also announced that Nassau County is now eligible to resume elective surgeries and ambulatory care, and that the state will allow Memorial Day ceremonies of 10 people or less statewide, with final decisions about ceremonies being left to local governments.

On Friday (May 29), Gov. Cuomo said New York City — the only part of the state that is not in any phase of re-opening — will target June 8 as the day for teh city to enter “Phase One” which will allow for nonessential stores to open for curbside pickup and nonessential construction and manufacturing could resume.

Gov. Cuomo announced on Tuesday (June 2)  that Western New York is entering ‘Phase Two” of re-opening effective immediately. The Capital Region is still on track to enter “Phase Two” on June 3 and New York City on June 8.

In addition, summer day camps statewide can re-open on June 29 and low-risk, outdoor recreational activities and businesses providing such activities may resume in regions that have met the public health and safety metrics required for “Phase One.”  Barbershops and hair salons consistent with the Department of Health guidance for “Phase Two” may re-open and any operator of an auto racetrack can re-open beginning June 3 for participants and staff, but no spectators.

On Monday (June 8) as New York City began its re-opening, Gov. Cuomo said effective immediately that elective surgeries can resume again in New York City.

With the governors of Connecticut and New Jersey, Gov. Cuomo announced on Wednesday (June 24) that visitors from states seeing a spike in coronavirus cases will have to quarantine for 14days. The order applies to any person arriving from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents over a 7-day rolling average or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average.

Also, the governor said that five regions – Central New York, the Finger Lakes, the Mohawk Valley, the North Country and the Southern Tier – are on track to enter “Phase 4” of reopening on Friday. The new phase allows for low-risk indoor and outdoor arts and entertainment, film and TV production, higher education and professional sports without fans. Guidance for “Phase 4” reopening is available here.

In conjunction with New Jersey and Connecticut to protect the tri-state area from seeing increases in COVID-19 cases, the state on Tuesday (June 30) began requiring self-quarantine for travelers from: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nevada, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.

The travel advisory applies to those arriving from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents over a 7-day rolling average or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average. Essential workers are exempted.

On Thursday (July 9), New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Thursday that all large events requiring a city events permit will be canceled through September 30.

On Tuesday (July 21), New York, Connecticut and New Jersey updated the tri-state quarantine restriction list to include:  As of Tuesday, individuals traveling from Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, North Carolina, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, bringing the total to 31 states.

North Carolina 

Gov. Roy Cooper issues a “Stay at Home” order on March 30 similar to other states telling his residents that they should stay in their homes and travel only for essential activities or business purposes. Some parts of the state, however, are issuing more stringent directives. Dare County, on Carolina’s coast and includes the Outer Banks and Nag’s Head, has issued a state of emergency allowing only permanent residents with proper identification — including a permanent resident entry permit — to enter the county’s coastal towns. Checkpoints have been established around the county to stop visitors and non-resident property owners from entering the popular summer vacation area.

On Monday (April 13) Gov. Cooper issued another executive order to limit the number of shoppers at one time in grocery stores and other “essential” retailers to practice social distancing so these establishments “do not become flashpoints for spreading the virus.”

The “Stay at Home” order was extended by Gov. Cooper on Thursday (April 23) until May 8.

On Tuesday (May 5), Gov. Cooper said businesses will be allowed to reopen Friday, May 8, at 5 p.m. but with modifications of the initial order:

• North Carolinians may operate, and travel to, businesses previously described as “nonessential,” like clothing or houseware stores.
• Retail businesses are allowed to open at 50 percent capacity and will be required to direct customers to stand 6 feet apart, perform frequent cleanings, provide hand sanitizer when available, screen workers for symptoms. 
• Parks can re-open, but no large groups are permitted. 
• Places of worship can hold services outdoors if social distancing practices are in place.
• Childcare facilities will be open to serve families of parents who are working or looking for work.

On Wednesday (May 20),  Gov. Cooper announced the extended stay-at-home order will end as the state enters “Phase 2” of the re-opening of the state on May 22 at 5 p.m.

Businesses and activities permitted to resume for “Phase 2” include:

• Restaurants — Dine-in customers permitted but at a maximum of 50 percent capacity, with distancing and cleaning requirements.
• Personal Care Businesses — Salons, barbers, etc. may open at 50 percent capacity, but employees must have face coverings and adhere to state cleaning requirements while also reducing the number of people in the waiting areas.
• Swimming Pools — Open at 50 percent capacity.
• Overnight and day camps — Open adhering to safety rules

In addition, gathering Limits are to be no more than 10 for indoors and 25 people outdoors. This applies to event venues; conference centers; stadiums and sports arenas; amphitheaters; and groups at parks or beaches.

On Wednesday (June 24),  Gov. Cooper said the Tar Heel State will remain in “Phase 2” for three more weeks; The governor also announced that face coverings must be worn when people are in public places.

North Dakota

The state department of health has ordered that all travelers arriving to North Dakota from international locations and states with widespread coronavirus outbreaks — as declared by the CDC — must quarantine immediately for 14 days. Workers in the following sectors are exempt: health care, food and agriculture, transportation, critical manufacturing, government operations, and energy.

Ohio 

A stay-at-home order has also been imposed on Ohio residents, according to Gov. Mike DeWine.

On Monday (April 20), Gov. DeWine closed the schools for the remainder of the academic year.

Gov. DeWine declared on Monday (April 27) that on Friday (May 1), all medical procedures that do not require an overnight stay will be permitted to proceed. Starting next Monday (May 4) offices can re-open and manufacturing, construction and distribution operations can resume. In two weeks (May 12), retail establishments can re-open as long as they adhere to state guidelines. The rules for retail re-opening are:

• Starting May 1 — Retail stores may reopen that restrict their operations to curbside pickup, delivery or appointment-only.
• Starting May 12 – Retail stores may reopen in full but the number of customers is limited to 10 at a time.

On Tuesday (May 12), Gov. DeWine announced that massage locations, and tattoo parlors will be allowed to reopen on Friday, May 15.

Additional businesses permitted to re-open are: hair salons, barbershops, nail salons and day spas and other personal care facilities. However, in order to reopen, all must follow strict guidelines from employees wearing face coverings to providing hand sanitizers.  A full list of guidelines can be found here.

Restaurants and bars will re-open their doors Friday with additional regulations. Outdoor service only and no parties of 10 or more are allowed.  Six-feet must be kept between parties – both when dining and waiting on a table. If this is not possible, the restaurant must utilize barriers and other protective measures. A full list of rules for restaurants and bars can be found here .

Other businesses have also been given dates to resume operations:

• May 22: Horse racing, but with no spectators
• May 26: Bureau of Motor Vehicles;  gyms and fitness centers but with  no or limited contact
• May 31: Child care facilities (reduced capacity, rules can be found here) and day camps. 

On Tuesday (May 19), Gov. DeWine declared that his “Safe at Home” order will be modified to an urgent health advisory entitled “Ohioans Protecting Ohioans.” “We are now moving from orders to strong recommendations,” DeWine said. “This is a new phase in our battle against the virus.” The new advisory incorporates six feet of social distancing; a limit of 10 people for mass gatherings; wearing of masks; frequent hand-washing; and other sanitizing efforts. However, citizens still considered “high risk” are asked to stay at home as much as possible and/or avoid places where they are likely to encounter a lot of people. Travel restrictions will be lifted and unnecessary travel within or outside of the state of Ohio is still permitted, but not encouraged.

On Thursday (May 21) the ban on some sports activities were lifted effective May 26. Bowling alleys, miniature golf courses and batting cages will be allowed to reopen and skills training for high school athletics also can resume.

Starting June 1, Wedding receptions, catering and banquet centers can reopen with guidelines including 6 feet between tables and no congregating. Crowd size is limited to 300.

On Tuesday (July 7), Gov. DeWine unveiled a new public health order that requires people wear masks in the seven “red” counties that have suffered the most coronavirus infections. Those counties are: Butler, Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, Huron, Montgomery and Trumbull.

Oklahoma

Gov. Kevin Stitt announced Tuesday, (March 24), a “safer at home order” which requires all “vulnerable populations” to remain at home through April 30. Trips to the grocery store or pharmacy, are allowed but the governor’s order also included the restriction of all gatherings of 10 or more people, effective at midnight.

Five days after his first order, on March 29, Gov. Sitt issued a second order requiring travelers from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Louisiana and Washington to undergo a 14-day quarantine.

The ban on elective surgeries will be lifted starting April 24, Gov. Stitt announced Wednesday (April 15). In addition, the “Safer at Home” order has been extended through May 6 for adults over the age of 65 and vulnerable individuals with serious underlying medical conditions.

On Wednesday (April 22)  Gov. Stitt previewed a plan to re-open some starting Friday. April 24. Personal care businesses, such as gyms, tattoo parlors, hair salons, barbershops, spas, nail salons and pet groomers can resume business activities but must adhere to social distancing and sanitation guidelines. Restaurants and movie theaters will re-open but with social distancing requirements. However, in Oklahoma City, Mayor David Holt said all businesses would remain closed until his order expires on April 30.

On Wednesday (May 6)  Gov. Stitt said the state is on track to begin “Phase 2” of the state’s re-opening on May 15. The plan features:

• The resumption of  non-essential travel 
• Employers close common areas and enforce social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Organized sports activities can reopen and operate under proper social distancing and sanitation protocols 
• Bars can operate with a smaller footprint for standing-room occupancy, using social distancing and sanitation protocols.
• Funerals and weddings can resume under social distancing protocols 
• Children’s nursery areas in places of worship can reopen

Gov. Stitt announced on Friday (May 29) that the state will proceed to “Phase 3” of its re-opening plan on June 1. In this next phase  businesses may resume unrestricted staffing at their worksites by observing proper CDC-recommended social distancing protocols and are recommended to continue increased cleaning and disinfecting practices. Phase 3 calls for the following:

• Citizens should minimize time spent in crowded environments and continue following CDC guidelines regarding social distancing
• If you are over 65 or part of a vulnerable population, continue following safer-at-home policies.
• Visitation to hospitals is allowed within state guidelines.
• Summer camps can re-open
• Businesses can resume unrestricted staffing at their worksites by observing proper CDC-recommended social distancing protocols and are recommended to continue increased cleaning and disinfecting practices.
• Businesses operating by appointment only may begin operating by appointment and walk-in at their discretion.

Oregon

Gov. Kate Brown issued a statewide order for residents to stay at home.

On Monday (June 29),  Gov. Kate Brown announced that Oregonians statewide will be required to wear face coverings in indoor public spaces starting Wednesday, July 1.

Effective Wednesday (July 15), the face-covering order will also be applied to outdoor public spaces when six feet of distance cannot be maintained. Also, indoor social gatherings of more than 10 people is prohibited.

Pennsylvania

Gov. Tom Wolf issued stay-at-home orders for residents of the state’s hardest-hit areas including Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties, according to local outlets. Similarly. the mayor of Philadelphia also imposed the same restrictions for residents in the area.

Wolf also cautioned that all “non-life-sustaining” businesses must close.

The statewide stay-at-home order was extended until Friday, May 8 at 12:01 AM, by Gov. Wolf on Monday (The initial order was set to expire on April 30.

On Wednesday (April 22) the governor presented a detailed plan to re-open the state when his order expires. The plan will categorize reopening into three phases: red, yellow, green. Phases will be assigned based on conditions in a county, counties or region. Wolf’s administration will study conditions in the north-central and northwest regions with a target of moving from red to yellow on May 8. To decide when to move from one phase to another state Department of Health metrics will be used in conjunction with a data tool developed by Carnegie Mellon University. The full “phase” plan is available here.

Gov. Wolf announced on Monday (April 27) that starting Friday, May 1, golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips and privately owned campgrounds may reopen. However, all of the re-opened recreation areas and businesses will be required to follow updated life-sustaining business guidance and FAQ issued by the state.

The first move towards re-opening was unveiled on Friday (May 1) by Gov. Wolf. Twenty-four counties in the northwest and north-central regions of the state, will begin the process on Friday, May 8. Those counties are:  Bradford, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, Union, Venango, and Warren.

Retailers are permitted to re-open, however curbside and delivery are still encouraged. Some restrictions still remain including:

• Gyms, indoor recreation, health and wellness facilities remain closed
• Barbershops, hair salons, nail salons etc remain closed
• Entertainment centers such as casinos, theaters etc. will remain closed
• Restaurants and bars are limited to carry-out and delivery. 

On Friday (May 15) another 2.6 million people across western Pennsylvania began to emerge from pandemic restrictions as Gov. Tom Wolf announced that 12 more counties — Adams, Beaver, Carbon, Columbia, Cumberland, Juniata, Mifflin, Perry, Susquehanna, Wyoming, Wayne and York — will be the next batch of counties moving to the “yellow” phase of his reopening plan, effective May 22. They are primarily in the south-central and northeast regions of the state.

They’ll join residents of 13 lightly impacted counties — including the cities of Pittsburgh, Johnstown and Altoona — where Wolf lifted his stay-at-home orders on Friday and gave permission for retailers and other types of businesses to reopen.

Where Wolf has lifted restrictions, people are now permitted to gather in groups of up to 25, although larger crowds remain prohibited. A wide range of retailers, offices and industrial sites can resume operating while observing state and federal health guidelines intended to prevent viral transmission.

However, gyms, barbershops, nail salons, casinos, theaters and other such venues are required to remain closed and other restrictions will remain in place, including a ban on youth sports. And bars and restaurants may still offer only delivery or takeout service.

On Tuesday (May 19), Gov. Wolf announced that effective immediately, businesses and employees in the real estate industry may conduct limited business-related activities statewide.

In an attempt to continue moving the re-opening forward, Gov. Wolf on Friday (May 22) announced dates for counties to continue the process. As of May 22, 49 counties are in the Yellow Phase.

• On May 29, the following 8 counties will move to the Yellow Phase: Dauphin, Franklin, Huntingdon, Lebanon, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike and Schuylkill.
• On May 29, the following 17 counties will move from Yellow Phase to the Green Phase: Bradford, Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Montour, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, Venango, Warren.
• On June 5, the following 10 counties are expected to move to the Yellow Phase: Philadelphia, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lehigh, Northampton and Montgomery.

On Wednesday (May 27), Gov. Wolf announced that beginning June 5, restaurants and retail food service businesses located in “Yellow Phase” counties may allow outdoor dining services with social distancing restrictions. Additionally, effective at 12:01 a.m. on May 29, the following 18 counties have been approved to move to the “Green Phase” of reopening: Bradford, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Montour, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, Venango, and Warren

The rules of “Yellow Phase” dining include:

• Indoor areas, including bar areas, of restaurants and retail food service businesses must be closed to customers except for through-traffic. Non-bar seating in outdoor areas (i.e., tables or counter seats that do not line up to a bar or food service area) may be used for customer seating.
• Customers being served must be seated at a table.
• No reusable menus 
• No self-service food or drink options, such as buffets, salad bars, condiments, and drink stations.
• Condiments on tables; these must be dispensed by employees upon the request of a customer.

“Green Phase” dining rules include:

• Restaurants are permitted to provide take-out and delivery sales, as well as dine-in service in both indoor and outdoor seating areas, so long as they strictly adhere to the requirements of the guidance, including maximum occupancy limits.
• Bar seating may be utilized if customers are seated and comply with physical distancing guidelines of at least 6 feet or physical barriers between customers. Standing in a bar area is not be permitted.
• A maximum of four customers that have a common relationship may sit together at the bar, while adhering to the physical distancing guidelines or barriers between other customers.

May 29: Gov. Wolf today announced that following 16 counties will move to green effective 12:01 a.m., June 5. Counties include Allegheny, Armstrong, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Clinton, Fayette, Fulton, Greene, Indiana, Lycoming, Mercer, Somerset, Washington, and Westmoreland. The 16 counties will join the following 18 counties currently in the Green Phase: Bradford, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Montour, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, Venango and Warren. Highlights of the “Green Phase” include:

• Large gatherings of more than 250 prohibited.
• Restaurants and bars open at 50 percent occupancy.
• Personal care services (including hair salons and barbershops) open at 50 percent occupancy and by appointment only.
• Indoor recreation, health and wellness facilities, and personal care services — such as gyms and spas — open at 50 percent occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged.
• Entertainment outlets such as casinos, theaters, and shopping malls open at 50 percent occupancy.
• Construction activity may return to full capacity with continued implementation of protocols.

On Thursday (July 1) the governor in conjunction with the state department of health announced that masks must be worn whenever anyone leaves home. The order takes effect immediately.

Rhode Island  

Gov. Gina Raimondo said her goal is still to lift the state’s stay-at-home order on May 8 and the next day start a “slow and methodical and careful” economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. The state will resume work and social activity on a “limited basis” with strict measures in place.

In the meantime, while the state works its way through phase 1, everyone who can work from home should do so, Raimondo announced.

On March 27, Raimondo announced the state National Guard will be ordered to go door-to-doorin Rhode Island’s seaside communities looking for people from New York — many of whom have vacation homes on the shore. She said at a news conference, “We will be targeting those homes where people have come from New York.” One day prior to that, the governor said she would sign an executive order requiring anyone arriving from New York state to self-quarantine for 14 days. In addition, National Guard troops were to be stationed at bus terminals and train stations to collect contact information from travelers arriving from New York. On the roadways, the Rhode Island state police has been ordered to stop cars with New York plates entering the state.

On Thursday (May 7) the governor said that she was amending her “Phase 1” re-opening plan for Saturday (May 9). Gatherings will now be limited to five people maximum – not the originally planned 10.

Non-essential retail stores will be permitted to resume operations but must limit the number of shoppers inside. Restaurants can continue takeout and delivery but outdoor dining will be phased in but only via reservation only (ie no walk-ins) and tables must be spaced six feet apart.

Saturday state parks will re-open. However, in addition to group size, social distancing and face coverings are the order of the day in the following parks:

• Beavertail State Park, Jamestown
• Black Regiment Monument, Portsmouth
• Burlingame State Park, Charlestown
• Cocumcussoc Park, North Kingstown
• Fort Adams State Park, Newport
• Fort Wetherill State Park, Jamestown
• Haines Memorial State Park, East Providence
• John H. Chafee Nature Preserve, North Kingstown
• J.L. Curran State Park, Cranston
• Lehigh High Grove, Portsmouth
• Lincoln Woods State Park, Lincoln
• Meshanticut State Park, Cranston
• Pulaski State Park, Glocester
• Purgatory Chasm, Middletown
• Snake Den State Park, Johnston

Beavertail, Burlingame, Fort Wetherill, Lincoln Wood and Pulaski will have reduced parking. No cookout or pickup sports games are permitted.

On Monday (May 18), Gov. Raimundo announced East Matunuck State Beach and Scarborough State Beach will re-open on Memorial Day, May 25 but in a limited capacity. She also said houses of worship are tentatively slated for re-opening on May 30th.  Summer youth sports will be allowed to resume the governor announced on Thursday (May 28). Starting June 1 sports can return with but with 15 kids or fewer.

On Tuesday (June 29) the governor issued an order for face-coverings in public to be worn until Aug. 3.

South Carolina 

In the Palmetto State Friday (March 27), Gov. Henry McMasters ordered that all visitors coming to South Carolina from New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, or New Orleans must quarantine for 14 days.

Charleston (March 26) and Columbia (March 29) issued “stay at home” orders.

Following a weekend of “beach weather” and large amounts of people hitting the Carolina coast without practicing “social distancing,”  Gov. McMaster issued an order Monday (March 30) to close all public access points to the state’s beaches, as well as the closing of all public boat ramps, landings and access points on the state’s lakes, rivers and waterways. Anyone violating the order may be fined up to $100 or spend a maximum of 30 days in jail.

Executive Order 2020-17 was issued by the governor on Tuesday March 31, ordering the closure of non-essential businesses. Businesses that will be closed starting April 1 as a result of the governor’s executive order are as follows:

Entertainment venues and facilities as follows:

• Night clubs
• Bowling alleys
• Arcades
• Concert venues, theaters, auditoriums, and performing arts centers
• Tourist attractions (including museums, aquariums, and planetariums)
• Racetracks
• Indoor children’s play areas (excluding daycare facilities)
• Adult entertainment venues
• Bingo halls
• Venues operated by social clubs

Recreational and athletic facilities and activities as follows:

• Fitness and exercise centers and commercial gyms
• Spas and public or commercial swimming pools
• Group exercise facilities, to include yoga, barre, and spin studios or facilities
• Spectator sports
• Sports that involve interaction with another person in close proximity and within less than six feet of another person
• Activities that require the use of shared sporting apparatus and equipment
• Activities on commercial or public playground equipment

Close-contact service providers as follows:

• Barber shops and hair salons
• Waxing salons
• Threading salons
• Nail salons and spas
• Tatoo parlors 
• Tanning salons
• Massage-therapy establishments and massage services

On Friday (April 3) Gov. McMaster signed two new executive orders; one is an expansion of businesses ordered to close the second is a ban on short-term rentals to people from CDC-identified coronavirus “hotspots.” The rental ban includes hotels, motels, rental houses, and AirBnbs. There will be exceptions for military, first responders, medical, and commercial transportation workers.

The additional businesses ordered to close are:

• Jewelry stores
• Department stores
• Furniture and home furnishing stores
• Clothing and shoe stores
• Florists
• Luggage and leather goods stores
• Sporting good stores
• Book stores
• Craft and music stores

On Monday (April 6) Gov. McMaster issued a statewide “Stay at Home” order that stipulates South Carolinians must remain at home or work unless visiting family, exercising, or obtaining essential goods or services.  In addition, the governor ordered restricting the number of shoppers in stores.

Gov. McMaster also issued Executive Order 2020-28, which removes restrictions on public access points to the state’s beaches, public piers, docks, and wharfs, while delegating to local officials the authority to restrict access, as they see fit.

This order also re-opens retail stores that were closed pursuant to Executive Order 2020-18. The businesses to be reopened are as follows:

• Furniture and home-furnishings stores
• Clothing, shoe, and clothing-accessory stores
• Jewelry, luggage, and leather goods stores
• Department stores, with the exception of hardware and home-improvement stores
• Sporting goods stores
• Book, craft, and music stores
• Flea markets
• Florists and flower stores

All other businesses previously closed by executive order will remain closed until further notice.

Starting Monday (April 20) at 5 pm local time, retail stores (listed above) will be permitted to reopen but must adhere to strict social distancing requirements including operating at 20 percent occupancy or five customers per 1,000 square feet, whichever is less. In addition, businesses must not knowingly allow customers to congregate within six feet of one another, excluding families. and DHEC guidelines.

Public beach access points, piers, docks, and wharfs may reopen Tuesday (April 21) at noon.

Despite the re-opening of some public places and businesses, on Wednesday (April 22),  Gov. McMaster said South Carolina students will not return to the classroom this academic year.

On Friday (May) 1 Gov. McMaster announced his “Work-or-Home” order will be lifted and returned to voluntary status starting Monday, May 4th   which will allow restaurants throughout South Carolina to offer outdoor dining as well as continuing take out, curbside, and delivery services. The following guidelines for restaurants to follow include:

• Outdoor tables are to be spaced a minimum of 8 feet from each other (measured from all edges of the table);
• Limit table groups to 8 individuals;
• Maintain strict social/physical distancing guidelines;
• Tables, chairs, and seats should be sanitized after every customer

South Dakota  

Gov. Kristi Noem on Tuesday (April 7) directed people in Minnehaha and Lincoln Counties over 65 and anyone who has a serious underlying medical condition, such as chronic lung disease, moderate to severe asthma and heart conditions — to stay home until April 27.

On April 28, the governor announced her “Back to Normal” plan and accompanying executive order which outlines guidance for individuals, businesses, schools, health care providers and local governments, but does not forth any specific dates or imposes specific requirements. Details can be found here.

Tennessee 

Gov. Bill Lee issued an executive order to get residents across the state back to work while adhering to strict health guidelines.

On April 20, Lee announed the majority of businesses in 89 of the state’s 95 counties will be allowed to reopen. The counties not included — Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, Madison, Shelby and Sullivan — which are home to the state’s largest cities — operate under their own departments of public health, not Tennessee’s Department of Health.

Restaurants and retail outlets in a majority of the state’s counties are now allowed to operate at half their normal capacity.

Additionally, on May 1, gyms in a majority of the state’s counties will also have the ability to operate at 50 percent capacity. The gyms and fitness centers must follow CDC guidelines but also must activate a variety of measures to ensure the protection of consumers and employees. The state’s full guidelines are posted online here.

In Nashville, Mayor John Cooper announced on Thursday (April 30) that he is extending his “Safer at Home” order through May 8 for residents and businesses of Metro Davidson County.

On Friday (May 15), Gov. Lee announced that capacity restrictions on restaurants and retail will be loosened, though social distancing best practices and guidance remain in effect. “Large Attractions” —  racetracks, amusement parks, waterparks, theaters, dinner theaters, auditoriums, large museums etc — will re-open on May 22. and more. The state’s Economic Recovery Group will issue guidelines to facilitate the safe reopening of larger attractions.

Texas 

Gov. Gregg Abbott outlined a plan to slowly reopen the state’s economy. On April 27, Abbott announced he will not extend the state’s stay-at-home order which is due to expire Thursday.

Restaurants, retailers, movie theaters and malls will now be allowed to let in customers up to 25 percent of capacity as long as they follow social distancing guidelines.

State parks are also open, but people must wear masks and practice social distancing. Groups should be no larger than five in the parks. Additionally, elective medical procedures are allowed to proceed.

However, bars, barbershops, hair salons and gyms will remain closed.

Local orders in state counties may remain in place. One locality that opted to move away from quarantine, Montgomery County, said it was lifting its order. Judge Mark J. Keough signed an order terminating the “Stay Home, Stop the Spread” order and nightly curfew as early as April 17.

On Tuesday (April 28), the governor said starting Monday (May 1) restaurants, retail stores and movie theaters will be allowed to open statewide but are limited to 25 percent capacity.

Gov. Abbott on Tuesday (May 5) announced that hair salons, barbershops, nail salons and tanning salons could open on Friday. Fitness centers/gyms can re-open on May 18 but customers must wear gloves and maintain six feet of distance in the facility. Showers and locker rooms will remain closed.,

Office buildings can also re-open but only with 25 percent of the workforce and must maintain social distancing.

In addition, schools will be allowed to hold some graduation ceremonies but with restrictions with graduates coming one at a time or via video or hold outside ceremonies with social distancing or in cars.

On Monday (May 18) Gov. Abbott said the remaining personal service businesses will be allowed to reopen effective immediately. Businesses located in office buildings and child care services can also resume operations. The governor also announced that restaurants, bars, wine tasting rooms and similar businesses can reopen on Friday, May 22. Bars are allowed to open at 25 percent capacity, and restaurants can operate at 50 percent.

Other re-openings and dates are:

May 22

• Rodeo and Equestrian Events 
• Bowling Alleys  
• Bingo Halls 
• Simulcast Racing  
• Skating Rinks 
• Aquariums and Natural Caverns

Zoos can re-open on May 29.

On May 31, summer camps can open while the state’s professional sports teams can also resume operations.

Gov. Abbott issued a proclamation on Tuesday (May 26) expanding services and activities that can open under “Phase 2” re-opening plan. Water parks, recreational sport programs for adults, driver education programs, and food-court dining areas within shopping malls can begin operations with limited occupancy starting Friday, May 29. Water parks must limit occupancy to 25 percent of normal operating limits. Video arcades at the parks must remain closed.

Starting Sunday, May 31 recreational sports programs for adults can resume, but games and similar competitions may not begin until June 15. Driver education programs can resume operations immediately.

Malls’ food-court dining areas can also immediately resume operations, but malls are encouraged to designate one or more individuals who are responsible for ensuring health and safety practices including: limiting tables to six individuals; maintaining a six-feet distance between individuals sitting at different tables; cleaning and disinfecting tables between uses, and ensuring no condiments or other items are left on tables between customer uses.

On Thursday (May 28), Gov. Abbott’ issued a new order that allows outdoor stadiums to host fans up to 25 percent of their normal capacity. Leagues will have to apply to state health officials to be allowed to have fans. Indoor events will still be without spectators.

On Friday (June 12), “Phase 3” of the re-opening began permitting some non-essential businesses, such as restaurants, to reopen at 75 percent capacity.

With a severe spike in reported cases in the Lone Star State, on Thursday (June 25), Gov. Abbott ordered hospitals in Bexar, Dallas, Harris and Travis counties to halt nonessential procedures as of Saturday, June 27 to ensure hospital beds are available for coronavirus patients.

Just two weeks after entering “Phase 3” of the state’s re-opening, Gov. Abbott on Friday (June 26) ordered bars to close their doors and scaled back restaurant capacity to 50 percent due to an increase in coronavirus cases. In addition, rafting and tubing businesses will close and as of June 29, dine-in service at restaurants will go from 75 percent down to 50 percent. Outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people must be approved by local governments.

At Dallas-Fort Worth Airport on Wednesday (July 1), it was announced that all terminal visitors must wear a face covering as recommended by the CDC and recently mandated by Dallas and Tarrant counties.

With COVID-19 cases rising, on Thursday (July 2) Gov. Abbott issued an Executive Order requiring all Texans and visitors to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases.

The Governor also said that mayors and county judges can impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of over 10 people, and making it mandatory that, with certain exceptions, people cannot be in groups larger than 10 and must maintain six feet of social distancing from others.

Utah

On Friday (March 27), Gov. Gary Herbert issued his “Stay Safe, Stay Home” order where Utahns are expected to stay home whenever possible. Following the governor’s announcement, Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Tooele, Summit, Wasatch and Morgan counties issued more stringent edits similar to the “stay at home” orders in most other states.

The last two of the states five National Parks — Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park — will close Tuesday (April 7) because of the pandemic. However, the main highway which runs through Capitol Reef will remain in operation.

On Friday (April 10), Gov. Herbert announced he is extending his original directive through Friday, May 1st.

The re-opening of the state will begin Friday with the following rules:

• Personal service salons will be able to open, but with restrictions including service providers wearing face coverings as well as their clients while also meticulously monitoring for coronavirus symptoms.
• The maximum number of people allowed in a “mass gathering” will rise from 10 to 20. Sports events and rock concerts are not permitted, People who gather in such groups should maintain hygiene, like hand-washing, hand sanitizer and masks.
• Restaurants will have to limit table size to groups of six, maintain six feet between parties, and check employees for symptoms before every shift. Complete rules and procedures are avilable here. 

Vermont 

Gov. Phil Scott began to reopen the state’s economy in phases on April 20. However, the governor is “critical steps to ensure the health and safety of Vermonters and the continuity of our healthcare system” while transitioning out of the state’s stay-at-home order which is slated to end on May 15.

On April 20, businesses such as construction, property management appraisers, lawyers or realtors could return to work as long as they met health requirements and wore face coverings. In addition, some outdoor businesses such as landscaping and exterior construction as well as civil engineers with crews of no more than two would be allowed to return to work sites.

Outdoor retail operations, such as garden centers and greenhouses, were also allowed to reopen for limited in-person shopping. No more than one customer is allowed per 200 square feet and only a maximum of 10 total people, including customers and staff, can be on-site at one time.

At the end of March, Vermont’s governor issued a stay-at-home order for residents and “strongly” discouraged incoming travel from coronavirus hotspots in the Northeast. The governor directed “non-essential” travelers from outside the state to self-quarantine for 14 days.

On Wednesday (May 6), Gov. Scott said effective Thursday, May 7 the state will re-open golf courses and state parks. However, gatherings must be limited to 10 people or less. People over the age of 65 or those with medical conditions are discouraged from attending park gatherings. Beaches, marinas and campgrounds remain closed.

Gov. Scott followed up his May 6th announcement on Monday (May 11) to state that in-person retail businesses will be allowed to resume on Monday, May 18. However, all employees will be required to wear a facial covering and – customers and employees – must maintain a distance of In addition starting June 1 gyms, spas, massage therapists, nail salons, cleaning services, and similar “interior maintenance” businesses can re-open. 

Virginia

Gov. Ralph Northam closed all of the commonwealth’s schools for the remainder of the academic year on March 23rd. Northam also banned “dining in” restaurants and ordered the closing of theaters, bowling alleys, gyms, beauty salons and race tracks closed. Take-out dining is permitted for restaurants.

As of March 25th, all elective surgeries were ordered to stop at all hospitals.

Following the lead of neighbor state Maryland, Northam announced on March 30 that people are only allowed to leave home for or food, supplies, “essential” work, medical care or to exercise/get fresh air. No gatherings of more than 10 people will be permitted. The state’s beaches are closed except for exercise or fishing. The order will be in force until June 10.

The earlier executive order closing recreation and entertainment businesses, as well as large gatherings, was extended Wednesday (April 15) until May 8, by Gov. Northam.

On Wednesday (April 29), the governor said elective surgeries and dental procedures may resume starting after midnight on April 30.

Gov. Northam said on Monday (May 4) that he is extending a statewide order mandating that some nonessential businesses close to May 14.

An executive order delaying parts of Northern Virginia to delay implementation of the “Phase 1” re-opening was issued by the governor on Tuesday (May 12). The delay will run until midnight on Thursday, May 28 and involves Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties; the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, and Manassas Park; and the towns of Dumfries, Herndon, and Vienna.

In addition, Gov. Northam said the remainder of Virginia may enter “Phase 1” starting Friday, May 15.

On Monday (May 18), Gov. Northam said the 3.5 miles of beachfront at Virginia Beach will open on Friday May 22 just in time for the Memorial Day holiday for “recreational activities.” That does not include: group sports, speakers, alcohol, tents and groupings of umbrellas and fishing on sand beaches in the Resort area. In addition, parking will also be limited to 50 percent capacity. The governor warned that social distancing measures must be obeyed or he will order the beach closed.

While restaurants, retail, farmers markets, fitness centers and campground are open under “Phase 1” with certain restrictions, the City of Richmond, Northern Virginia and Accomack County are exempted from “Phase 1” until May 28.

Face masks will now be required indoors the governor announced on Tuesday (May 26).  In addition, he said that Northern Virginia will be allowed to enter “Phase 1,” on Friday, May 29. Under “Phase 1” restaurant and beverage businesses can operate with outdoor seating at 50 percent capacity, if they have permits for outdoor seating. Non-essential retail stores and houses of worship can also operate at 50 percent occupancy.

On Thursday (May 28), Gov. Northam announced that all public beaches in Virginia may reopen starting on Friday, May 29. Beaches will still have to have restrictions in place such as no tents, no gatherings of 10 or more and playing of team sports. In addition, protective masks are required in public.  In addition to the beaches, NASCAR and other open-air events will be allowed to return without spectators.

On Tuesday (June 2), Gov. Northam announced the state will enter “Phase 2” on June 5 – except for Northern Virginia and Richmond. “Phase 2” will allow:

• Gatherings of up to 50 people instead of the current 10-person limit
• Restaurants to open indoor seating at 50 percent capacity
• Gyms and fitness centers to open for indoor classes at 30 percent capacity
• Pools can re-open for exercise and swim instruction
• Museums and zoos to re-open with some restrictions
• Recreational sports to start back up with distancing requirements and no shared equipment.

In Northern Virginia at the Pentagon, the Department of Defense said the facility would move into “Phase 1” which calls for:

• Cloth face coverings are mandatory when 6-feet social distancing cannot be maintained.
• Social distancing of 6 feet is mandatory wherever possible, including in office workspaces.
• Gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
• Only mission essential personnel should be returning to workspaces.  
• Organizations should manage their workforce to meet the goal of no more than 40% of their workforce in office spaces, with 60% or more teleworking.
• Telework and other stay-at-home options should be maximized for vulnerable populations.
• Organizations should consider cohort or alternating schedules to meet workforce goals and social distancing requirements.
• DOD employees should take their temperature in the morning before leaving home.  Personnel should stay home and notify their supervisor if their temperature is 100.4 degrees F or 38 degrees C.
• DOD employees who are sick, ill, or exhibiting symptoms should stay home, notify their supervisor, and seek medical attention.
• Random screening (temperature and questions) of employees and contractors will occur at facility entrances. 
• Limited food court choices will be available.  Social distancing in common areas will be enforced. Pentagon Reservation athletic facilities remain closed.

 Washington 

This state was hit hard when the disease first hit the U.S. Monday night, Gov. Jay Inslee ordered non-essential businesses to close and the state’s more than 7 million residents to stay home unless necessary in order in an attempt to slow the spread.

The stay-at-home order will remain in place through April 6 and expands Inslee’s previous actions closing bars, restaurants, and entertainment/recreation facilities as well as large gatherings.

While laying criteria Wednesday (April 15) to re-open the state, the governor said the stay-at-home order remains in place through May 4.

On Monday (April 27) Gov. Inslee announced state parks, public lands, boat ramps and recreational hunting and fishing would re-open starting May 5.

The “stay at home” order was extended on Friday (May 1) by Gov. Inslee through May 31, the governor also said construction could resume as well as non-urgent surgeries.

On Tuesday (May 4)  drive-in religious services, auto and boat sales, and car washes, were permitted to re-open as part of “Phase 1.”

On Monday (May 11), three counties — Wahkiakum, Skamania, and Stevens — were approved to move to “Phase 2,” bringing the total number of counties approved for that phase to eight; Gov Inslee also released guidelines to resume the dine-in restaurant and tavern industry for those counties that were granted approval.

On Tuesday (May 19), Gov. Inslee Tuesday announced expanded criteria to allow 10 counties — Adams, Clark, Clallam, Kitsap, Lewis, Island, Mason, San Juan, Spokane — to reopen more quickly under his four-part coronavirus recovery plan.

If approved for “Phase 2,”  restaurants can reopen with in-store dining, retailers are allowed some in-store purchases and pet groomers can re-open. Barbershops, hairstylists and tattoo artists attorneys, architects and IT professionals can also resume operations with safety protocols in place.

On Tuesday (June 23), Gov, Inslee issued an order for a statewide mandatory face covering order in public settings that will take effect Friday, June 26. Six days later, July 2, the state announced employees of all businesses to wear face coverings and businesses have the right not to serve any customer services or goods if they are not wearing a face covering.

West Virginia 

Gov. Jim Justice issued a stay-at-home order for the entire state. Residents must stay at home except for essential needs.

A little over a week later, Gov. Justice said West Virginia State Police will be monitoring state roads and highways to enforce an executive order that requires out-of-state citizens to self-quarantine for 14 days.

On April 20, the governor announced that hospitals can begin to submit requests starting April 27 to perform elective surgeries. The requests will be reviewed by the state department of health to ensure that the facilities have taken all the necessary procedures to keep patients and staff safe.

Starting on Monday (May 4), Gov. Justice said small businesses with 10 employees or less, pet groomers, barbershops, hair and nail salons can resume operations. In addition, restaurants with outdoor dining service and/or takeaway/delivery may reopen.

Beginning Friday, May 15, guided fishing trips will be allowed in the state as long as social distancing guidelines are followed. Only two fishermen and one guide are allowed inside a boat at one time.

Following up on his initial re-opening plan, Gov. Justice announced on Monday (May 11) that starting Thursday, May 21 the following businesses and public activities will be allowed to resume operations under certain conditions:

• Indoor dining at restaurants but at 50 percent capacity
• Large, specialty retail stores
• State Park campgrounds, but only to in-state residents. On May 26 cabins and lodges at state parks will re-open.
• Outdoor recreation rentals
• Outdoor motorsport/powersport racing can resume but without spectators
• Hatfield-McCoy trail system

On Monday (May 18) Gov. Justice announced that the following businesses and entities will soon be allowed to resume operations and reopen if additional guidelines are followed

• May 21 — Indoor shopping malls
• May 21 — Whitewater rafting, ziplining 
• May 21 — Hatfield McCoy Trail System
• May 26 – Indoor and outdoor bars at 50 percent capacity
• May 26 — Museums and zoos
• May 26 — State park cabins and lodges (but for in-state residents only)
• May 26 — Hatfield McCoy Trail System
• May 30 — Spas and massage businesses
• May 30 — Tanning businesses 
• May 30 — Video lottery retailers
• June 5 — Casinos

On Friday (May 29), Gov. Justice announced that practice for low-contact youth sports and little league sports can resume June 8, and that games will also be able to resume on June 22.

Effective Tuesday (July 14), Gov. Justice ordered that all citizens and visitors to the state will now be required to wear face masks in public buildings. The executive order, applies to everyone 9 years or older.

Wisconsin  

Gov. Tony Evers directed the state’s Department of Natural Resources to reopen several state parks, forests and recreational areas. Starting May 1, 34 state parks and forests will reopen under special conditions to minimize overcrowding and promote social distancing. Other rules include:

• A suspension of free admission to the parks. An annual park sticker and/or trail pass will be required to visit state parks and trails.
• State parks will close at 7 pm instead of 11 pm. Opening remains at 6 am. Properties will close to the public every Wednesday for maintenance and upkeep.
• State forests will operate from 6 am to 11 pm hunting and fishing will be allowed in accordance with legal season structure and hours. Access to some areas may be limited to foot traffic or or water access only.
• An annual state trail pass is required for anyone age 16 or older for biking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding or in-line skating. No pass is needed for walking or hiking.
• Boat launches are open at open state properties
• Restrooms are closed at all state parks, waterways, trails and forests. 
• Camping grounds remain closed through May 26.  

“Outdoor recreation is important for both physical and mental health, and I know how important it is to Wisconsinites to get outside and enjoy Wisconsin’s natural resources and spring weather,” said Evers. “With a few adjustments, like closing one day a week for maintenance and reduced hours of operation, folks should be able to get outside and enjoy our parks safely and respectfully.”

The state’s stay at home order has been extended until May 26, roughly a month after it was issued. Wisconsinites are allowed to leave their homes to go to the grocery store or doctor. People are allowed to exercise outside but are required to keep six feet between themselves and others unless they live with the person. Playgrounds are closed and group sports, like basketball and soccer are banned.

On April 16, Evers announced he was extending the stay-at-home orders until May 26 with some amendments. Golf courses practicing social distancing will be allowed to reopen. Nonessential businesses will now be allowed to make deliveries and have curbside pickup available.

On Monday (May 11), Gov. Evers announced that standalone or strip-mall based retail stores can re-open for in-person shopping. Only five customers at a time will be allowed in-store and both shoppers and employees will have to follow social distancing guidelines by remaining at least six feet apart from others. Face masks are encouraged.

Wyoming  

Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday (April 3) ordered all out-of-state visitors to self-quarantine for 14 days. There is no state-wide “stay at home” order, however, Teton County has an order, but it applies only to those aged 65 and older as well as those with “at risk” medical conditions. In addition, the tribes of the Wind River Reservation have issued a “stay at home” order. Like other orders around the country, these directives allow for employees working in essential occupations, like health care, first responders, public works, sanitation crews, financial services employees, grocery and food supply workers to go to work.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.