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STATE BY STATE REOPENING PLANS
As of May 1, 2020
Alabama
Gov. Kay Ivey said the current stay at home order will not be extended beyond April 30.
Ivey says she will instead issue a “Safer at Home” order that will go into effect on April 30 at 6 p.m. ET and will expire on May 15 at 6 p.m. ET.
Under the order, all employers, retail stores and beaches will be allowed to open subject to good sanitation and social distancing rules, Ivey said.
Ivey says by no means is the state out of the woods with the coronavirus threat and encourages all Alabamians to stay home and follow good sanitation practices.
Alaska
Gov. Mike Dunleavy allowed personal services businesses and restaurants in most parts of Alaska to reopen April 24, but with restrictions.
Hair salons can only admit customers by reservation. Restaurants will have to keep distances between tables and can't exceed 25% of their normal capacity.
The city of Anchorage is delaying the new rules until April 27.
Dunleavy says Alaska is not in a rush to reopen, but is responding to a low infection rate in the state and a belief that they can quickly isolate any future outbreaks.
"You'll see the numbers go up," he said, "but you want to look at the bed capacity, the numbers recovered, and a whole host of other metrics."
Dunleavy has said that Alaskans can again schedule elective surgeries on or after May 4 and visit their doctors for non-urgent needs.
Arizona
Gov. Doug Ducey told reporters April 29 that he is extending his stay-at-home order until May 15 with modifications. Under the new order, elective surgeries can begin on May 1. Retailers can open to delivery, curbside and pickup orders on Monday, May 4. The governor said he hopes to be able to reopen restaurants May 12.
Navajo Nation extended the closure of their government until May 17.
Arkansas
Gov. Asa Hutchinson said April 30 that gyms, fitness centers, and indoor athletic facilities can resume operations beginning Monday, May 4.
But people who have been to New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and New Orleans cannot enter those places.
The governor announced Wednesday that his state will open restaurants for limited dine-in service May 11. Restaurants will only be able to operate at a third of their normal capacity and they must limit groups to no larger than 10 people.
Hutchinson added that if the state continues to see a downward trend of coronavirus cases, it will move into a second phase by allowing restaurants to increase to 67% of capacity.
California
Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a stay-at-home order on March 19 that has no set end date.
However, the state will begin allowing scheduled surgeries. Newsom emphasized the surgeries being phased back in are important medical procedures like heart surgery or removing cancerous tumors that should not be neglected. Elective procedures like cosmetic surgery are still not a priority.
This will begin the first phase of a return to normalcy in California.
However, California is pulling back on issuing permits for events and activities, including protests, at all state facilities, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Newsom announced a joint Western States Pact with Oregon Governor Kate Brown and Washington Governor Jay Inslee on April 13.
Colorado
Gov. Jared Polis said the state's stay-at-home order will be replaced April 27 by a "safer at home" phase, in which residents still are urged to stay home as much as possible. High-risk populations, such as the elderly, are asked to stay home except when it's absolutely necessary to leave.
Starting April 27, retail businesses with curbside delivery can reopen and elective medical procedures can resume. Businesses such as personal training and dog grooming can reopen with social distancing. More retail businesses will reopen later this week, while people will be permitted to return to non-essential office work on May 4. The state also joined with Nevada and three West Coast states to coordinate their Covid-19 reopening plans.
Polis warned people not to think the coronavirus emergency is over, however. “It's not going to be life as normal. We're in this for the long haul, but it's sustainable for the medium term,” Polis said in a press conference the day the order was lifted.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock extended the city’s stay-at-home order until at least May 8.
Connecticut
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont extended the mandatory shutdown in the state until May 20.
But, Lamont said more testing is needed so the state can reopen by that date. He praised the federal government for loosening regulations on testing ingredients so they can expand testing more quickly.
The state has also ordered tens of thousands of "fever-meters" thermometers, which Lamont says will be "incredibly helpful" when folks go back to work at big manufacturers where temperatures can be taken before entering the buildings.
Connecticut has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a news release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office.
On April 30, Lamont outlined the industries that officials in the state are looking at for re-opening on May 20.
So far the list includes outdoor-only restaurants (no bar areas), outdoor zoos and outdoor museums, university research programs, hair and nail services, remaining retail that’s currently been deemed as non-essential, some offices -- although individuals should be encouraged to work from home where possible.
Delaware
Gov. John Carney issued a statewide stay-at-home order that will remain until May 15 or until the "public health threat is eliminated." Carney said the state will consider reopening its economy only after seeing 28 days of declining Covid-19 cases.
Delaware has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from NY Governor Andrew Cuomo's office.
The governor said April 17 that once the state reopens, social distancing, face coverings in public, washing hands, limited gatherings and vulnerable populations sheltering in place will remain.
District of Columbia
Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel E. Bowser extended a stay-at-home order until May 15.
"I don't know if that means we will be open on May 16, but it will be a point for us to check in. And if we need to extend it beyond that, we certainly will," Bowser said during an April 15 media briefing.
Florida
Florida will reopen certain businesses through much of the state on May 4 except in the counties of Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach, according to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Starting May 4, restaurants may offer outdoor seating with six-foot space between tables and indoor seating at 25% capacity. Retail can operate at 25% of indoor capacity, and bars, gyms and personal services such as hair dressers will remain closed. Churches remain on “voluntary social distancing,” and movie theaters remain closed. The state’s stay-at-home order ends on April 30.
DeSantis defended the decision made by local leaders to reopen the beaches as he awaits recommendations from Reopen Task Force
The reopening of the beaches in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, generated criticism and also generated the Twitter hashtag #FloridaMorons.
"My hats off to the people of Jacksonville and Northeast Florida for doing a great job," DeSantis said. "And for those who try to say you're morons, I would take you over the folks who are criticizing you any day of the week and twice on Sunday."
The Florida Keys will not reopen to visitors until at least June, county commissioners said April 24.
Georgia
Gov. Brian Kemp started to ease restrictions April 24.
Gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, barbers, hair and nail salons, estheticians and massage therapists were able to reopen April 24, with certain rules. Theaters and restaurants were allowed to reopen April 27, also with caveats.
The caveats include social distancing and screening employees for illness.
Bars, nightclubs and music venues will remain closed, for now.
A shelter in place order for “medically fragile and elderly Georgians” is in place through June 12.
The shelter in place order for other Georgians ended April 30.
"However, moving forward, I am urging Georgians to continue to stay home whenever possible,” Kemp said in a statement. “I want to thank the people of our great state who heeded public health advice, afforded us time to bolster our health-care infrastructure, and flattened the curve. We were successful in these efforts, but the fight is far from over.”
Hawaii
The statewide stay at home order for Hawaii set to expire April 30 has been extended until May 31, Gov. David Ige announced. Ige said he has also extended the order that travelers quarantine for 14 days after their arrival to the state until May 31.
Beaches are now open for exercising such as jogging, running or walking but people cannot loiter on the beach and must maintain social distance, Ige said.
Groups of two people or more are now allowed to fish for subsistence or commercial purposes, Ige said. A previous restriction limited such gatherings to two people.
Elective surgeries are also allowed to take place as long as there is enough capacity although that could change should the state see a surge or increase in need, Ige said.
Idaho
Gov. Brad Little amended his order April 15 to allow for some businesses and facilities to reopen for curbside pickup, drive-in and drive-thru service and for mailed or delivery services. It is now effective through the end of the month.
The governor issued an "Order to Self-Isolate" which will expire on April 30 unless extended.
Little said that the measures were working and Idaho is "truly seeing a flattening of the curve."
"Our goal is for most businesses to open after the end of the month, but with the understanding that it may not be possible if there's an upward trend in severe Covid-19 cases in Idaho between now and then," Little said.
Illinois
Gov. J.B. Pritzker on April 30 announced a shift in the state's approach to Covid-19.
A modified stay-at-home order goes into effect Friday, May 1. The order would allow more flexibility "where it is safe" to do so, according to Pritzker.
State parks, golf courses, retail stores, and garden centers are some of the few places that are reopening with strict social measures.
Non-urgent surgeries that have been put off due to the crisis can also now be scheduled in surgery centers and hospitals, according to the governor.
Pritzker also announced guidance on the use of masks in public. He said, "Tomorrow will be the first day where adults and any children over the age of two and everyone medically able to tolerate a face covering will be required to wear one in public places where they can't maintain a 6-foot social distance."
Indiana
Gov. Eric Holcomb on April 17 extended the stay-at-home order through May 1.
The extension will give the state additional time to look into what the best way is to reopen sectors of the economy, Holcomb said. He said he would work with the state hospital association to see when elective surgeries could resume.
Indiana is part of a Midwest coalition of states looking at reopening possibilities.
Iowa
Gov. Kim Reynolds has not declared a stay-at-home order. Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency on March 17, ordering all nonessential businesses to close until April 30. On Monday, April 27, Reynolds has announced that 77 of Iowa's 99 counties can reopen restaurants, fitness centers, retail stores and enclosed malls at 50% capacity beginning May 1.
Reynolds also said that she is lifting the ban on religious gatherings of more than 10 people.
This approach takes "a targeted approach to loosening restrictions" and focuses on counties "where there is no virus activity or where virus activity has been consistently low and shown a downward trend," Reynolds explained.
Counties where Covid-19 activity is higher will have their closures extended through May 15, the Governor said. "It's based on a stabilization and it's based on virus activity and the amount of new cases over the past 14 days," Reynolds said.
"Businesses and churches approved for reopening must also adhere to social distancing, hygiene, public health measures, and business guidelines from the department of public health to, of course, reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19," the Governor said.
Reynolds also said that restaurants will have to keep tables at least six feet apart and limit the number of people that can be at a table.
The Governor emphasized that the state limit on social gatherings of more than 10 people remains in place.
Kansas
Gov. Laura Kelly issued a stay-at-home order, which ends May 3.
Kelly said April 30: “If localities determined that the time is right, businesses that can maintain at least six feet of distance between consumers and adhere to industry-specific guidelines can begin to transition back to work."
Businesses such as restaurants would be allowed to reopen, but they must maintain at least 6 feet of distance between customers.
Close contact services would not be included for now, Kelly said. Those might open in the second phase, which won’t begin until May 18, at the earliest.
Kentucky
Starting May 11, manufacturing, construction, vehicle or vessel dealerships; professional services at 50% capacity; horse racing without fans; and dog grooming and boarding will be allowed to reopen, according to Gov. Andy Beshear.
On May 20, retail and houses of worship will be allowed to reopen. As the final step in the state’s first phase of reopening, 10-person social gatherings will be allowed again, and barber shops, salons, cosmetology businesses and the like will be allowed to reopen starting May 25.
Restaurants, movie theaters, camp grounds, youth sports, summer camps and daycares will be part of a possible June reopening in Phase 2, Beshear said.
Customers and employees will be asked to wear a mask at every reopened and essential business.
Louisiana
Gov. John Bel Edwards issued new guidelines for the state and eased some restrictions while extending the stay at home order until May 15.
Beginning on Friday under the new order, malls in Louisiana will remain closed to the public, but stores can offer curbside delivery. Restaurants can still do takeout and delivery orders, but can also offer outdoor seating. There will not be any wait staff, but customers will be able to sit outside and eat if they want, minding social distancing rules. Edwards also said that all employees in businesses interacting with the public are required to wear masks.
Churches can operate outdoors with tents as long as those tents don't have flaps on the side, the governor said.
Edwards said his decision to extend the order was based on data, science and the guidance from the White House.
Edwards said the state has not met the threshold where they need to be in hospitalizations, new cases and testing.
Maine
Gov. Janet Mills announced that while the state has started to flatten the curve, it is still not out of the woods.
“Today, I am announcing that I will extend the stay at home order, in the form of a new Stay Safer at Home Executive Order. This order will be effective through May 31st. And it will allow Maine people to continue to engage in activities that are already permitted such as occasional grocery shopping, exercise; but it will also be modified to allow us to participate in the safe and gradual reopening, restarting of our economy.”
Maryland
Gov. Larry Hogan introduced his state's reopening plan on April 24.
Hogan described the plan, "Maryland Strong Roadmap to Recovery" as "a safe, effective and gradual plan, which will allow us to reopen, to rebuild and to recover just as soon as it is safe for us to do so."
The state has not yet hit their Covid-19 peak, cases are on the rise, and they are therefore not ready to open back up for business, Hogan said.
He had issued a statewide stay-at-home order on March 30.
Massachusetts
Gov. Charlie Baker announced that he is extending the timeline for the closure of nonessential businesses.
“We are extending the timeline for all nonessential businesses to keep the physical workplaces and facilities closed to all workers, customers and the public until May 18th and the state at home advisory also remains in place during this time,” Baker said, adding that gatherings of 10 or more are also banned until May 18.
Massachusetts has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Rhode Island to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from NY Governor Andrew Cuomo's office.
Michigan
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on April 24 has extended the state's stay-at-home order through May 15 -- but also relaxed restrictions so some businesses can reopen and the public can participate in more outdoor activities like golf and motorized boating.
The latest order allow landscapers, lawn-service companies, plant nurseries and bike repair shops to resume operating, subject to social-distancing rules.
Big-box retailers will no longer have to close off garden centers and areas dedicated to selling paint and carpet.
People also are allowed, under the latest order, to travel between their residences, though it isn't encouraged. They will be allowed to use motorized boats and play golf (but not golf carts) in adherence with social distancing protocols. State parks, which have been accessible during the health emergency, will remain open.
Whitmer also announced on April 29 that she is signing an executive order to reopen both residential and commercial construction within the state by May 7.
Minnesota
Gov. Tim Walz says he will allow some businesses to reopen, beginning April 27. This will allow 80,000 to 100,000 people in the industrial, manufacturing and office settings to go back to work.
"Today's order was developed with consultation with hundreds of businesses, with labor groups, with worker's organizations, and with public health experts," he said.
"None of this would be done without a sign off of independent health experts," Walz stressed.
The governor said to reopen, businesses must create, share and implement a Covid-19 preparedness plan that outlines measures they are taking to ensure social distancing and worker hygiene.
He added that businesses must also engage in health screenings of employees and ensure that sick workers stay at home.
Mississippi
Mississippi's statewide stay-at-home order is scheduled to end on May 11.
"We are very closely monitoring what’s happening in places like Georgia, we're monitoring multiple states," Gov. Tate Reeves said on April 28. "We’ve got to give people the opportunity to go back to work, as soon as we make sure we can do it in a safe and responsible way.”
Reeves signed a new “Safer at Home” executive order that took effect on April 27 for two weeks and replaced the state’s shelter in place order.
The new order urges all Mississippians to stay home except for essential travel. The most vulnerable people — the elderly, people with pre-existing conditions, and those people with compromised immune systems — will have to shelter in place.
The Safer at Home order bans all social gatherings or non-essential gatherings of 10 or more people. Places of entertainment or amusement, movie theaters, bars, museums, spas, gyms, tattoo parlors, casinos and barber shops will remain closed.
Restaurants can continue to serve food via drive-thru or delivery.
Missouri
Gov. Mike Parson on April 16 extended the stay-at-home order through May 3.
Parson announced his “Show Me Strong Recovery” plan on April 27, saying that the state will start reopening economic and social activity on May 4. There are no limitations on social gatherings as long as six feet of distance can be maintained between individuals.
All business will be able to reopen as long as six feet of social distancing can be maintained. Indoor retail businesses will also have to limit their number of customers to no more than 25% of normal capacity. Local communities will be allowed to have stricter rules if they choose.
Montana
Gov. Steve Bullock has announced a gradual and phased reopening of the state beginning April 26 for individuals, and extending to businesses April 27.
Main street and retail businesses can become operational on or after April 27 if they adhere to requirements to limit capacity and maintain strict physical distancing.
Restaurants, bars, breweries, and distilleries can begin providing some in-establishment services beginning May 4.
Businesses where groups gather without the ability to social distance including movie theaters, gyms and other places of assembly will remain closed.
Montana's travel quarantine will remain in effect, and out of state travelers and residents arriving from another state or country back to Montana for non-work related purposes are required to quarantine for 14 days.
Nebraska
Gov. Pete Ricketts announced Friday that a number of coronavirus rules will be relaxed across the state starting on May 4. Nebraska is one of the states that has not issued a stay-at-home order to help limit the spread of coronavirus nationwide.
Restaurants will be permitted to allow customers inside at that time, but must permit no more than 50% of their normal capacity. Salons, massage businesses and tattoo parlors will be limited to ten people at a time, with everyone wearing face coverings. Houses of worship will be able to meet in-person, but with six feet of separation.
Bars and indoor theaters will have to stay closed until May 31 in most of the state.
Nevada
Gov. Steve Sisolak said April 30 that the state’s stay-at-home order will be extended until mid-May.
But he signed a new directive that allows expanded outdoor and recreational activities as of May 1. All retail stores will be allowed to operate with curbside pickup (currently allowed for restaurants and eateries). Retail cannabis dispensaries will be included.
Golf courses and tennis courts can open with restrictions.
Sisolak has explained that the reopening of Nevada’s casinos is still a long way off. Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman drew scrutiny after she called for casinos and most other local businesses to open immediately.
New Hampshire
Gov. Chris Sununu issued a stay-at-home order until May 4.
Sununu told reporters on April 16 that he'll decide on whether to extend the order before May 4. Sununu extended the State of Emergency to May 15.
"We want to give people some flexibility and be able to plan," Sununu said. He said that applies to restrictions on nonessential businesses and public gatherings.
New Jersey
Gov. Phil Murphy issued a stay-at-home order on March 21 that has no specific end date.
New Jersey is a part of a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts that said they would aim to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a news release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office.
"No one has given more thought or is more eager to restart our economy than I am, but if we don't get the sequencing right, we put more lives at risk. The only path to a sustainable economic recovery is through a strong healthcare recovery," Murphy said in his own news release. "A coordinated, regional approach, informed by a multi-state council of experts, will help us avoid a major setback with potentially disastrous consequences."
On Monday, April 27, Murphy stressed that people need to know that their health will be safeguarded before anything can ultimately be reopened. Decisions will be driven by data science health progress and “common sense” he said. The governor said that reopening will likely begin in work places and venues where the state has a “high degree of confidence” that social distancing and other related norms can be effectively executed.
While he did not have a clear picture of what would come back online first he mentioned the “food chain” and other essential elements. Murphy added that as much as he loves music concerts are not going to be coming back “anytime soon.”
New Mexico
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham extended the state’s stay-at-home order to May 15.
“I want to be crystal clear: While we’re making progress, we are not yet out of the woods. We will not be able to reopen everything on May 16. The virus will not be gone on May 16. The pandemic will not be over. There is no magical date,” the governor said.
“Between now & May 15 we will be in the preparation phase for a gradual & safe reopening of segments of our economy. The state will get direct input from business & employee groups in industries statewide -- and we will make health-driven decisions about safe reopening procedures.”
On April 30, she eased restrictions on some businesses. Non-essential retail stores are being allowed to offer curbside pickup. Vetenarians can open, as can pet adoption places, groomers, daycare and boarding businesses. Golf courses can allow people to play.
New York
Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a "New York State on PAUSE" executive order which took effect on March 22. Nonessential businesses are ordered to stay closed until May 15.
New York has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from Cuomo's office.
"Now that we've shown we can flatten the curve and our efforts to control the spread of the virus are working, we must focus on a smart, effective plan to un-pause New York," Cuomo said last week. "The first part of the plan is to do no harm - don't let that infection rate go up to the best of your ability and don't lose the progress that we have made. Second, now that we have some stability in our health care system after a weekslong overdrive, we continue to strengthen that system and ramp up testing and contact tracing to identify those who are sick and isolate them so they don't transmit the virus to others. Then we can focus on phasing an economic return to the new normal -- but we need all those activities going on at the same time for our plan to un-pause New York to work."
The governor said April 16 there are factors for when a business can reopen, including how essential it is and what is the risk of catching the virus.
On April 27, Cuomo laid out a structure for reopening and noted that federal guidance from the CDC is that before you start reopening the state and regional hospitalization rate must be in decline for 14 days. The state is closely monitoring both and the Governor says he thinks the CDC guidance “is right.”
“We’re going to reopen in phases,” he said, which will be based on a regional analysis, particularly economic regions. Cuomo said the first phase would include construction and manufacturing activities – and within that “those businesses that have a low risk” he said. Phase two would utilize more of a business-by-business analysis using a matrix that determines each businesses overall importance and risk in reopening.
“When we get there, we need businesses to do that analysis” he added. They need to think about how they are going to open in the “new normal” the governor said.
Cuomo said the state would leave 2 weeks between phases so it can monitor the effects of what it has done. Two weeks is the intubation period of the virus, per experts.
North Carolina
Gov. Roy Cooper extended a stay-at-home order, now set to go through May 8.
On April 23, Cooper said the state could open in three phases after May 8, if coronavirus cases continue to trend downward:
•In Phase 1, stay-at-home orders would remain, but some businesses would be allowed to open.
•Phase 2 would lift stay-at-home orders, though vulnerable populations would be encouraged to stay home. Places of worship, bars and restaurants could operate with reduced capacities.
•Phase 3 would ease restrictions for vulnerable populations, but also allow increased capacities at businesses and public gatherings.
North Dakota
Gov. Doug Burgum signed an executive order Wednesday allowing many businesses to open after 8 a.m. on May 1. Qualifying businesses include bars and restaurants, recreational facilities, health clubs and athletic facilities, salons, and tattoo studios, but they must maintain social distancing of six feet, inform all employees and customers that they should avoid entering the facility if they have a cough or fever, provide contactless payment systems and hand sanitizer, and encourage wearing face masks.
Movie theaters must limit admittance to 20% of normal operating capacity and keep at least two empty seats between guests.
Ohio
A statewide stay-at-home order will remain in place until May 29, the state health department said. Certain businesses, however, are expected to reopen in phases across May.
Starting May 1, health procedures that don’t require an overnight hospital stay can move forward, and dentist and veterinarian offices also may reopen, Gov. Mike DeWine said.
On May 4, manufacturing, distribution and construction companies may reopen. General offices also may open, but businesses should have people work from home when possible, DeWine said.
On May 12, consumer, retail and other services will be allowed to reopen, the governor said.
The state has outlined protocols for reopening businesses, including requiring face coverings for all staff and customers, conducting daily health assessments, and maintaining good hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing.
Oklahoma
Gov. Kevin Stitt allowed some businesses to reopen on April 24.
The plan involves three phases, and Stitt cautioned "we will not move to the next phase until the data tells us that it's safe to do so."
Starting on Friday, personal care businesses reopened for appointments.
Restaurants, dining rooms, movie theaters, sporting venues and gyms will reopen the following week, May 1, if they maintain "strict social distancing and sanitation protocols."
Bars, however, will still be closed.
Oregon
Gov. Kate Brown issued an executive order directing Oregonians to stay at home that "remains in effect until ended by the governor." Hospitals, surgical centers, medical offices, and dental offices that meet requirements for Covid-19 safety and preparedness will be able to resume non-urgent procedures on May 1.
Brown announced a joint Western States Pact with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on April 13.
"This is not a light switch going on or off," Brown told CNN's Anderson Cooper on April 14. "This is going to be making a change, testing it, modeling it, seeing whether it works, and then if it does, you can make another change."
Brown said she would not ease restrictions before seeing five components in place: declining growth rate of active cases, sufficient personal protective equipment, surge capacity in hospitals, increased test capacity, contact tracing and isolating positive cases, and strategies to protect vulnerable communities.
Pennsylvania
Gov. Tom Wolf wants to reopen the state in three phases beginning May 8th.
The phases will be broken down into three colors red, yellow and green, and will follow the data, according to Governor Wolf. He had issued stay-at-home orders across the state until April 30.
On April 27, Wolf announced that golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips and privately owned campgrounds could reopen statewide on May 1, provided they follow social distancing guidelines.
“Pennsylvanians have remained resilient throughout this COVID-19 crisis, and as we successfully continue to flatten the curve to protect our physical health, it is critical that we also focus on our physical and mental health during these extraordinary times. As the weather warms and daylight lengthens, enjoying time outdoors is an important way to manage stress,” Wolf said.
Pennsylvania had joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office.
Rhode Island
Gov. Gina Raimondo said if the number of new cases remains flat or declines and people continue to obey the rules of the stay-at-home order that lasts until May 8, she intends to “enter phase one of the reopening on May 9.”
"It's my hope that we will be able to enjoy our parks and beaches in the month of May," Raimondo said. "We'll be reopening them, like everything else, in a staged fashion, slowly, with new restrictions, incrementally, leading up to an eventual complete reopening."
Rhode Island has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from NY Governor Andrew Cuomo's office.
But Raimondo warned that if people rush out and the number of new cases rise, then the stay-at-home order cannot be lifted.
South Carolina
Gov. Henry McMaster announced that at 5 p.m. on April 20, some retail stores will be allowed to open, including those selling furniture, books, music, flowers, clothing and accessories, as well as department stores, sporting goods stores and flea markets. They will be allowed to open at 20% capacity, or 5 people per 1,000 square feet.
Beaches are allowed to reopen to public access beginning April 21 at noon, McMaster said -- though local governments are allowed to keep them closed.
McMaster's "State of Emergency" executive order has been extended to May 12.
South Dakota
Gov. Kristi L. Noem has not issued a stay-at-home order.
"We have seen such an outstanding call to action among the people of South Dakota that we actually have more people staying home than many of the other states that have put in shelter in place orders and have put together directives to tell people they can't leave their homes," she said at a town hall hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting on April 15.
Noem announced on April 13 that South Dakota would be the first state to conduct a hydroxychloroquine trial to test against Covid-19.
Tennessee
Gov. Bill Lee said restaurants will be allowed to open on Monday, April 27, and retail outlets next Wednesday, April 29, at 50% capacity.
"We are working around the clock to get Tennesseans safely back to work in 89 of our counties with the majority of businesses in a position to begin opening their doors next week," Lee said.
Close contact services like salons and barbershops will be allowed to reopen on May 6 in 89 of the state’s 95 counties, Lee announced on April 29.
Texas
Gov. Greg Abbott, who had ordered all Texans to stay home through April 30, announced on April 27 the first phase of the state's plan to safely reopen Texas.
All retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, malls, museums, and libraries are permitted to reopen on Friday, May 1, but must limit their capacity to 25% of their listed occupancy.
“This strategic approach to opening the state of Texas prioritizes the health and safety of our communities and follows the guidelines laid out by our team of medical experts," Abbott said. "Now more than ever, Texans must remain committed to safe distancing practices that reduce the spread of COVID-19, and we must continue to rely on doctors and data to provide us with the safest strategies to restore Texans' livelihoods,” he said.
Utah
Gov. Gary Herbert extended the state's "Stay Safe, Stay Home" directive through May 1. Schools will be closed for the remainder of the year.
Utah has not issued a stay-at-home mandate.
The state will allow restaurants to let customers dine in again “with extreme precaution” starting Friday, May 1. It’s part of the state’s move from high risk to moderate risk status, Herbert said Tuesday, April 28.
Although in-person dining will be allowed as long as social distancing is maintained and the health of employees is monitored, the state still says takeout and delivery are preferable. Similarly, the state will allow gyms to reopen Friday, but says it is recommended that they remain closed.
Personal services businesses like hair salons also can reopen Friday with social distancing, according to the state’s moderate risk guidelines.
Vermont
Gov. Phil Scott issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order that has been extended until May 15.
Scott on April 17 outlined a five-point plan to reopen the state while continuing to fight the spread of the coronavirus during a news conference.
Part of that plan includes certain businesses such as construction, home appraisers, property management and municipal clerks to return to work on April 20, with social distancing measures in place. These businesses will be allowed a maximum of two workers. On May 1, farmers markets will be able to operate with strict social distancing guidelines in place, Scott said.
On April 27, Scott and the state’s health commissioner, Dr. Mark Levine, said that Vermont was not ready to reopen until it meets four main criteria: A sustained reduction in cases for at least 14 days; A healthcare system that is able to treat all patients without exceeding its capacity and without having to resort what are termed, 'crisis standards of care'; The state is able to test all people who have symptoms, and; The state is able to implement and conduct active monitoring of confirmed cases and their contacts.
Addressing reopening businesses, Gov. Scott said that "the more businesses we open up, the more cases we're going to see. I think that's clear," adding that “there's no way to open up without creating opportunities for more transmission.”
“So the balance will be how many new cases we're comfortable having,” he said.
Virginia
Gov. Ralph Northam issued a stay-at-home order effective until June 10.
“We will move forward, but in a way that prioritizes public health and builds public confidence,” Northam said. “Businesses know that customers will return only when they feel that it is safe to do so. Our blueprint for the path forward is data-driven and provides clear guidance, so Virginians will know what to expect and understand how we will decide to when to lift certain public health restrictions.”
Phase one of the “Forward Virginia” blueprint, which includes continued social distancing, teleworking, limits on travel and public gatherings, and recommended use of face covering, will begin no sooner than two weeks from now to allow for a 14-day downward trend in confirmed Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations.
Northam has made it clear that the state must make decisions based on "science, public health expertise, and data," Secretary of Health and Human Resources Daniel Carey said.
Washington
Gov. Jay Inslee extended Washington's stay-at-home order until May 4, saying "We are yet to see the full toll of this virus in our state and the modeling we've seen could be much worse if we don't continue what we're doing to slow the spread."
Most state parks and recreational areas will be reopened in May 5, Inslee said April 27. The state also will allow to people to play golf again, but it will be limited to only two people playing together at a time, except when the players live in the same home. No overnight camping will be allowed on any public land.
Inslee announced a joint Western States Pact with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Oregon Gov. Kate Brown on April 13.
Before deciding on when to reopen the state, Inslee said during an interview with Katy Tur on MSNBC that there would need to be an "enormous expansions" of coronavirus testing capabilities, a way to trace the spread in communities, and "for the president to recognize that these decisions really are going to be made by governors."
West Virginia
The stay-at-home order for West Virginia will be lifted at 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 4 and be replaced with another order Monday, Gov. Jim Justice said April 30.
The new order still encourages people to stay at home but doesn't require it, Justice said.
Further guidance will be issued for areas considered hot spots, according to Justice.
Justice said in a press conference Tuesday, April 28 that his administration plans to reopen local businesses Thursday as previously announced.
Positive test result rate was under 3% (of all tests given) Monday and Tuesday and that was the case Thursday so certain healthcare-related businesses were allowed to ****open.
Those qualifying businesses include pharmacies, chiropractors, dentists, psychologists, physical therapists, social workers and others.
Daycare workers will be tested for the virus beginning this week and will reopen should all working personnel test negative.
All businesses reopening will require personnel to sanitize, physically distance and wear face coverings.
If this week continues on track, more businesses will be permitted to open Monday.
Wisconsin
Gov. Tony Evers has extended his state's stay-at-home order to expire May 26, according to a statement from the governor's office.
On April 23, Evers announced in a news conference that:
"Starting tomorrow (April 24), our public libraries will be able to provide curb site, pick up books and other materials. Arts and crafts stores may offer expanded curbside pickup of materials necessary to make face masks and other personal protective equipment and yes, starting tomorrow, golf courses may open up.”
Wyoming
Gov. Mark Gordon submitted a request asking for a federal disaster declaration for Wyoming on April 9. Wyoming is one of the states without a stay-at-home order.
"Though Wyoming has not reached the dire situations of some states, this declaration will help us to prepare and mobilize resources when we need them," Gordon said in a news release. "I look forward to a swift response to our request from the federal government."
Gordon extended statewide public health orders through April 30 and issued a directive requiring travelers to quarantine for 14 days.
On Tuesday, April 28, the governor said new statewide public health orders will begin May 1. Gyms and personal services business like hair and nail salons will be allowed to reopen under tight restrictions.
Gov. Kay Ivey said the current stay at home order will not be extended beyond April 30.
Ivey says she will instead issue a “Safer at Home” order that will go into effect on April 30 at 6 p.m. ET and will expire on May 15 at 6 p.m. ET.
Under the order, all employers, retail stores and beaches will be allowed to open subject to good sanitation and social distancing rules, Ivey said.
Ivey says by no means is the state out of the woods with the coronavirus threat and encourages all Alabamians to stay home and follow good sanitation practices.
Alaska
Gov. Mike Dunleavy allowed personal services businesses and restaurants in most parts of Alaska to reopen April 24, but with restrictions.
Hair salons can only admit customers by reservation. Restaurants will have to keep distances between tables and can't exceed 25% of their normal capacity.
The city of Anchorage is delaying the new rules until April 27.
Dunleavy says Alaska is not in a rush to reopen, but is responding to a low infection rate in the state and a belief that they can quickly isolate any future outbreaks.
"You'll see the numbers go up," he said, "but you want to look at the bed capacity, the numbers recovered, and a whole host of other metrics."
Dunleavy has said that Alaskans can again schedule elective surgeries on or after May 4 and visit their doctors for non-urgent needs.
Arizona
Gov. Doug Ducey told reporters April 29 that he is extending his stay-at-home order until May 15 with modifications. Under the new order, elective surgeries can begin on May 1. Retailers can open to delivery, curbside and pickup orders on Monday, May 4. The governor said he hopes to be able to reopen restaurants May 12.
Navajo Nation extended the closure of their government until May 17.
Arkansas
Gov. Asa Hutchinson said April 30 that gyms, fitness centers, and indoor athletic facilities can resume operations beginning Monday, May 4.
But people who have been to New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and New Orleans cannot enter those places.
The governor announced Wednesday that his state will open restaurants for limited dine-in service May 11. Restaurants will only be able to operate at a third of their normal capacity and they must limit groups to no larger than 10 people.
Hutchinson added that if the state continues to see a downward trend of coronavirus cases, it will move into a second phase by allowing restaurants to increase to 67% of capacity.
California
Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a stay-at-home order on March 19 that has no set end date.
However, the state will begin allowing scheduled surgeries. Newsom emphasized the surgeries being phased back in are important medical procedures like heart surgery or removing cancerous tumors that should not be neglected. Elective procedures like cosmetic surgery are still not a priority.
This will begin the first phase of a return to normalcy in California.
However, California is pulling back on issuing permits for events and activities, including protests, at all state facilities, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Newsom announced a joint Western States Pact with Oregon Governor Kate Brown and Washington Governor Jay Inslee on April 13.
Colorado
Gov. Jared Polis said the state's stay-at-home order will be replaced April 27 by a "safer at home" phase, in which residents still are urged to stay home as much as possible. High-risk populations, such as the elderly, are asked to stay home except when it's absolutely necessary to leave.
Starting April 27, retail businesses with curbside delivery can reopen and elective medical procedures can resume. Businesses such as personal training and dog grooming can reopen with social distancing. More retail businesses will reopen later this week, while people will be permitted to return to non-essential office work on May 4. The state also joined with Nevada and three West Coast states to coordinate their Covid-19 reopening plans.
Polis warned people not to think the coronavirus emergency is over, however. “It's not going to be life as normal. We're in this for the long haul, but it's sustainable for the medium term,” Polis said in a press conference the day the order was lifted.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock extended the city’s stay-at-home order until at least May 8.
Connecticut
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont extended the mandatory shutdown in the state until May 20.
But, Lamont said more testing is needed so the state can reopen by that date. He praised the federal government for loosening regulations on testing ingredients so they can expand testing more quickly.
The state has also ordered tens of thousands of "fever-meters" thermometers, which Lamont says will be "incredibly helpful" when folks go back to work at big manufacturers where temperatures can be taken before entering the buildings.
Connecticut has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a news release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office.
On April 30, Lamont outlined the industries that officials in the state are looking at for re-opening on May 20.
So far the list includes outdoor-only restaurants (no bar areas), outdoor zoos and outdoor museums, university research programs, hair and nail services, remaining retail that’s currently been deemed as non-essential, some offices -- although individuals should be encouraged to work from home where possible.
Delaware
Gov. John Carney issued a statewide stay-at-home order that will remain until May 15 or until the "public health threat is eliminated." Carney said the state will consider reopening its economy only after seeing 28 days of declining Covid-19 cases.
Delaware has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from NY Governor Andrew Cuomo's office.
The governor said April 17 that once the state reopens, social distancing, face coverings in public, washing hands, limited gatherings and vulnerable populations sheltering in place will remain.
District of Columbia
Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel E. Bowser extended a stay-at-home order until May 15.
"I don't know if that means we will be open on May 16, but it will be a point for us to check in. And if we need to extend it beyond that, we certainly will," Bowser said during an April 15 media briefing.
Florida
Florida will reopen certain businesses through much of the state on May 4 except in the counties of Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach, according to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Starting May 4, restaurants may offer outdoor seating with six-foot space between tables and indoor seating at 25% capacity. Retail can operate at 25% of indoor capacity, and bars, gyms and personal services such as hair dressers will remain closed. Churches remain on “voluntary social distancing,” and movie theaters remain closed. The state’s stay-at-home order ends on April 30.
DeSantis defended the decision made by local leaders to reopen the beaches as he awaits recommendations from Reopen Task Force
The reopening of the beaches in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, generated criticism and also generated the Twitter hashtag #FloridaMorons.
"My hats off to the people of Jacksonville and Northeast Florida for doing a great job," DeSantis said. "And for those who try to say you're morons, I would take you over the folks who are criticizing you any day of the week and twice on Sunday."
The Florida Keys will not reopen to visitors until at least June, county commissioners said April 24.
Georgia
Gov. Brian Kemp started to ease restrictions April 24.
Gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, barbers, hair and nail salons, estheticians and massage therapists were able to reopen April 24, with certain rules. Theaters and restaurants were allowed to reopen April 27, also with caveats.
The caveats include social distancing and screening employees for illness.
Bars, nightclubs and music venues will remain closed, for now.
A shelter in place order for “medically fragile and elderly Georgians” is in place through June 12.
The shelter in place order for other Georgians ended April 30.
"However, moving forward, I am urging Georgians to continue to stay home whenever possible,” Kemp said in a statement. “I want to thank the people of our great state who heeded public health advice, afforded us time to bolster our health-care infrastructure, and flattened the curve. We were successful in these efforts, but the fight is far from over.”
Hawaii
The statewide stay at home order for Hawaii set to expire April 30 has been extended until May 31, Gov. David Ige announced. Ige said he has also extended the order that travelers quarantine for 14 days after their arrival to the state until May 31.
Beaches are now open for exercising such as jogging, running or walking but people cannot loiter on the beach and must maintain social distance, Ige said.
Groups of two people or more are now allowed to fish for subsistence or commercial purposes, Ige said. A previous restriction limited such gatherings to two people.
Elective surgeries are also allowed to take place as long as there is enough capacity although that could change should the state see a surge or increase in need, Ige said.
Idaho
Gov. Brad Little amended his order April 15 to allow for some businesses and facilities to reopen for curbside pickup, drive-in and drive-thru service and for mailed or delivery services. It is now effective through the end of the month.
The governor issued an "Order to Self-Isolate" which will expire on April 30 unless extended.
Little said that the measures were working and Idaho is "truly seeing a flattening of the curve."
"Our goal is for most businesses to open after the end of the month, but with the understanding that it may not be possible if there's an upward trend in severe Covid-19 cases in Idaho between now and then," Little said.
Illinois
Gov. J.B. Pritzker on April 30 announced a shift in the state's approach to Covid-19.
A modified stay-at-home order goes into effect Friday, May 1. The order would allow more flexibility "where it is safe" to do so, according to Pritzker.
State parks, golf courses, retail stores, and garden centers are some of the few places that are reopening with strict social measures.
Non-urgent surgeries that have been put off due to the crisis can also now be scheduled in surgery centers and hospitals, according to the governor.
Pritzker also announced guidance on the use of masks in public. He said, "Tomorrow will be the first day where adults and any children over the age of two and everyone medically able to tolerate a face covering will be required to wear one in public places where they can't maintain a 6-foot social distance."
Indiana
Gov. Eric Holcomb on April 17 extended the stay-at-home order through May 1.
The extension will give the state additional time to look into what the best way is to reopen sectors of the economy, Holcomb said. He said he would work with the state hospital association to see when elective surgeries could resume.
Indiana is part of a Midwest coalition of states looking at reopening possibilities.
Iowa
Gov. Kim Reynolds has not declared a stay-at-home order. Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency on March 17, ordering all nonessential businesses to close until April 30. On Monday, April 27, Reynolds has announced that 77 of Iowa's 99 counties can reopen restaurants, fitness centers, retail stores and enclosed malls at 50% capacity beginning May 1.
Reynolds also said that she is lifting the ban on religious gatherings of more than 10 people.
This approach takes "a targeted approach to loosening restrictions" and focuses on counties "where there is no virus activity or where virus activity has been consistently low and shown a downward trend," Reynolds explained.
Counties where Covid-19 activity is higher will have their closures extended through May 15, the Governor said. "It's based on a stabilization and it's based on virus activity and the amount of new cases over the past 14 days," Reynolds said.
"Businesses and churches approved for reopening must also adhere to social distancing, hygiene, public health measures, and business guidelines from the department of public health to, of course, reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19," the Governor said.
Reynolds also said that restaurants will have to keep tables at least six feet apart and limit the number of people that can be at a table.
The Governor emphasized that the state limit on social gatherings of more than 10 people remains in place.
Kansas
Gov. Laura Kelly issued a stay-at-home order, which ends May 3.
Kelly said April 30: “If localities determined that the time is right, businesses that can maintain at least six feet of distance between consumers and adhere to industry-specific guidelines can begin to transition back to work."
Businesses such as restaurants would be allowed to reopen, but they must maintain at least 6 feet of distance between customers.
Close contact services would not be included for now, Kelly said. Those might open in the second phase, which won’t begin until May 18, at the earliest.
Kentucky
Starting May 11, manufacturing, construction, vehicle or vessel dealerships; professional services at 50% capacity; horse racing without fans; and dog grooming and boarding will be allowed to reopen, according to Gov. Andy Beshear.
On May 20, retail and houses of worship will be allowed to reopen. As the final step in the state’s first phase of reopening, 10-person social gatherings will be allowed again, and barber shops, salons, cosmetology businesses and the like will be allowed to reopen starting May 25.
Restaurants, movie theaters, camp grounds, youth sports, summer camps and daycares will be part of a possible June reopening in Phase 2, Beshear said.
Customers and employees will be asked to wear a mask at every reopened and essential business.
Louisiana
Gov. John Bel Edwards issued new guidelines for the state and eased some restrictions while extending the stay at home order until May 15.
Beginning on Friday under the new order, malls in Louisiana will remain closed to the public, but stores can offer curbside delivery. Restaurants can still do takeout and delivery orders, but can also offer outdoor seating. There will not be any wait staff, but customers will be able to sit outside and eat if they want, minding social distancing rules. Edwards also said that all employees in businesses interacting with the public are required to wear masks.
Churches can operate outdoors with tents as long as those tents don't have flaps on the side, the governor said.
Edwards said his decision to extend the order was based on data, science and the guidance from the White House.
Edwards said the state has not met the threshold where they need to be in hospitalizations, new cases and testing.
Maine
Gov. Janet Mills announced that while the state has started to flatten the curve, it is still not out of the woods.
“Today, I am announcing that I will extend the stay at home order, in the form of a new Stay Safer at Home Executive Order. This order will be effective through May 31st. And it will allow Maine people to continue to engage in activities that are already permitted such as occasional grocery shopping, exercise; but it will also be modified to allow us to participate in the safe and gradual reopening, restarting of our economy.”
Maryland
Gov. Larry Hogan introduced his state's reopening plan on April 24.
Hogan described the plan, "Maryland Strong Roadmap to Recovery" as "a safe, effective and gradual plan, which will allow us to reopen, to rebuild and to recover just as soon as it is safe for us to do so."
The state has not yet hit their Covid-19 peak, cases are on the rise, and they are therefore not ready to open back up for business, Hogan said.
He had issued a statewide stay-at-home order on March 30.
Massachusetts
Gov. Charlie Baker announced that he is extending the timeline for the closure of nonessential businesses.
“We are extending the timeline for all nonessential businesses to keep the physical workplaces and facilities closed to all workers, customers and the public until May 18th and the state at home advisory also remains in place during this time,” Baker said, adding that gatherings of 10 or more are also banned until May 18.
Massachusetts has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Rhode Island to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from NY Governor Andrew Cuomo's office.
Michigan
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on April 24 has extended the state's stay-at-home order through May 15 -- but also relaxed restrictions so some businesses can reopen and the public can participate in more outdoor activities like golf and motorized boating.
The latest order allow landscapers, lawn-service companies, plant nurseries and bike repair shops to resume operating, subject to social-distancing rules.
Big-box retailers will no longer have to close off garden centers and areas dedicated to selling paint and carpet.
People also are allowed, under the latest order, to travel between their residences, though it isn't encouraged. They will be allowed to use motorized boats and play golf (but not golf carts) in adherence with social distancing protocols. State parks, which have been accessible during the health emergency, will remain open.
Whitmer also announced on April 29 that she is signing an executive order to reopen both residential and commercial construction within the state by May 7.
Minnesota
Gov. Tim Walz says he will allow some businesses to reopen, beginning April 27. This will allow 80,000 to 100,000 people in the industrial, manufacturing and office settings to go back to work.
"Today's order was developed with consultation with hundreds of businesses, with labor groups, with worker's organizations, and with public health experts," he said.
"None of this would be done without a sign off of independent health experts," Walz stressed.
The governor said to reopen, businesses must create, share and implement a Covid-19 preparedness plan that outlines measures they are taking to ensure social distancing and worker hygiene.
He added that businesses must also engage in health screenings of employees and ensure that sick workers stay at home.
Mississippi
Mississippi's statewide stay-at-home order is scheduled to end on May 11.
"We are very closely monitoring what’s happening in places like Georgia, we're monitoring multiple states," Gov. Tate Reeves said on April 28. "We’ve got to give people the opportunity to go back to work, as soon as we make sure we can do it in a safe and responsible way.”
Reeves signed a new “Safer at Home” executive order that took effect on April 27 for two weeks and replaced the state’s shelter in place order.
The new order urges all Mississippians to stay home except for essential travel. The most vulnerable people — the elderly, people with pre-existing conditions, and those people with compromised immune systems — will have to shelter in place.
The Safer at Home order bans all social gatherings or non-essential gatherings of 10 or more people. Places of entertainment or amusement, movie theaters, bars, museums, spas, gyms, tattoo parlors, casinos and barber shops will remain closed.
Restaurants can continue to serve food via drive-thru or delivery.
Missouri
Gov. Mike Parson on April 16 extended the stay-at-home order through May 3.
Parson announced his “Show Me Strong Recovery” plan on April 27, saying that the state will start reopening economic and social activity on May 4. There are no limitations on social gatherings as long as six feet of distance can be maintained between individuals.
All business will be able to reopen as long as six feet of social distancing can be maintained. Indoor retail businesses will also have to limit their number of customers to no more than 25% of normal capacity. Local communities will be allowed to have stricter rules if they choose.
Montana
Gov. Steve Bullock has announced a gradual and phased reopening of the state beginning April 26 for individuals, and extending to businesses April 27.
Main street and retail businesses can become operational on or after April 27 if they adhere to requirements to limit capacity and maintain strict physical distancing.
Restaurants, bars, breweries, and distilleries can begin providing some in-establishment services beginning May 4.
Businesses where groups gather without the ability to social distance including movie theaters, gyms and other places of assembly will remain closed.
Montana's travel quarantine will remain in effect, and out of state travelers and residents arriving from another state or country back to Montana for non-work related purposes are required to quarantine for 14 days.
Nebraska
Gov. Pete Ricketts announced Friday that a number of coronavirus rules will be relaxed across the state starting on May 4. Nebraska is one of the states that has not issued a stay-at-home order to help limit the spread of coronavirus nationwide.
Restaurants will be permitted to allow customers inside at that time, but must permit no more than 50% of their normal capacity. Salons, massage businesses and tattoo parlors will be limited to ten people at a time, with everyone wearing face coverings. Houses of worship will be able to meet in-person, but with six feet of separation.
Bars and indoor theaters will have to stay closed until May 31 in most of the state.
Nevada
Gov. Steve Sisolak said April 30 that the state’s stay-at-home order will be extended until mid-May.
But he signed a new directive that allows expanded outdoor and recreational activities as of May 1. All retail stores will be allowed to operate with curbside pickup (currently allowed for restaurants and eateries). Retail cannabis dispensaries will be included.
Golf courses and tennis courts can open with restrictions.
Sisolak has explained that the reopening of Nevada’s casinos is still a long way off. Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman drew scrutiny after she called for casinos and most other local businesses to open immediately.
New Hampshire
Gov. Chris Sununu issued a stay-at-home order until May 4.
Sununu told reporters on April 16 that he'll decide on whether to extend the order before May 4. Sununu extended the State of Emergency to May 15.
"We want to give people some flexibility and be able to plan," Sununu said. He said that applies to restrictions on nonessential businesses and public gatherings.
New Jersey
Gov. Phil Murphy issued a stay-at-home order on March 21 that has no specific end date.
New Jersey is a part of a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts that said they would aim to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a news release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office.
"No one has given more thought or is more eager to restart our economy than I am, but if we don't get the sequencing right, we put more lives at risk. The only path to a sustainable economic recovery is through a strong healthcare recovery," Murphy said in his own news release. "A coordinated, regional approach, informed by a multi-state council of experts, will help us avoid a major setback with potentially disastrous consequences."
On Monday, April 27, Murphy stressed that people need to know that their health will be safeguarded before anything can ultimately be reopened. Decisions will be driven by data science health progress and “common sense” he said. The governor said that reopening will likely begin in work places and venues where the state has a “high degree of confidence” that social distancing and other related norms can be effectively executed.
While he did not have a clear picture of what would come back online first he mentioned the “food chain” and other essential elements. Murphy added that as much as he loves music concerts are not going to be coming back “anytime soon.”
New Mexico
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham extended the state’s stay-at-home order to May 15.
“I want to be crystal clear: While we’re making progress, we are not yet out of the woods. We will not be able to reopen everything on May 16. The virus will not be gone on May 16. The pandemic will not be over. There is no magical date,” the governor said.
“Between now & May 15 we will be in the preparation phase for a gradual & safe reopening of segments of our economy. The state will get direct input from business & employee groups in industries statewide -- and we will make health-driven decisions about safe reopening procedures.”
On April 30, she eased restrictions on some businesses. Non-essential retail stores are being allowed to offer curbside pickup. Vetenarians can open, as can pet adoption places, groomers, daycare and boarding businesses. Golf courses can allow people to play.
New York
Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a "New York State on PAUSE" executive order which took effect on March 22. Nonessential businesses are ordered to stay closed until May 15.
New York has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from Cuomo's office.
"Now that we've shown we can flatten the curve and our efforts to control the spread of the virus are working, we must focus on a smart, effective plan to un-pause New York," Cuomo said last week. "The first part of the plan is to do no harm - don't let that infection rate go up to the best of your ability and don't lose the progress that we have made. Second, now that we have some stability in our health care system after a weekslong overdrive, we continue to strengthen that system and ramp up testing and contact tracing to identify those who are sick and isolate them so they don't transmit the virus to others. Then we can focus on phasing an economic return to the new normal -- but we need all those activities going on at the same time for our plan to un-pause New York to work."
The governor said April 16 there are factors for when a business can reopen, including how essential it is and what is the risk of catching the virus.
On April 27, Cuomo laid out a structure for reopening and noted that federal guidance from the CDC is that before you start reopening the state and regional hospitalization rate must be in decline for 14 days. The state is closely monitoring both and the Governor says he thinks the CDC guidance “is right.”
“We’re going to reopen in phases,” he said, which will be based on a regional analysis, particularly economic regions. Cuomo said the first phase would include construction and manufacturing activities – and within that “those businesses that have a low risk” he said. Phase two would utilize more of a business-by-business analysis using a matrix that determines each businesses overall importance and risk in reopening.
“When we get there, we need businesses to do that analysis” he added. They need to think about how they are going to open in the “new normal” the governor said.
Cuomo said the state would leave 2 weeks between phases so it can monitor the effects of what it has done. Two weeks is the intubation period of the virus, per experts.
North Carolina
Gov. Roy Cooper extended a stay-at-home order, now set to go through May 8.
On April 23, Cooper said the state could open in three phases after May 8, if coronavirus cases continue to trend downward:
•In Phase 1, stay-at-home orders would remain, but some businesses would be allowed to open.
•Phase 2 would lift stay-at-home orders, though vulnerable populations would be encouraged to stay home. Places of worship, bars and restaurants could operate with reduced capacities.
•Phase 3 would ease restrictions for vulnerable populations, but also allow increased capacities at businesses and public gatherings.
North Dakota
Gov. Doug Burgum signed an executive order Wednesday allowing many businesses to open after 8 a.m. on May 1. Qualifying businesses include bars and restaurants, recreational facilities, health clubs and athletic facilities, salons, and tattoo studios, but they must maintain social distancing of six feet, inform all employees and customers that they should avoid entering the facility if they have a cough or fever, provide contactless payment systems and hand sanitizer, and encourage wearing face masks.
Movie theaters must limit admittance to 20% of normal operating capacity and keep at least two empty seats between guests.
Ohio
A statewide stay-at-home order will remain in place until May 29, the state health department said. Certain businesses, however, are expected to reopen in phases across May.
Starting May 1, health procedures that don’t require an overnight hospital stay can move forward, and dentist and veterinarian offices also may reopen, Gov. Mike DeWine said.
On May 4, manufacturing, distribution and construction companies may reopen. General offices also may open, but businesses should have people work from home when possible, DeWine said.
On May 12, consumer, retail and other services will be allowed to reopen, the governor said.
The state has outlined protocols for reopening businesses, including requiring face coverings for all staff and customers, conducting daily health assessments, and maintaining good hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing.
Oklahoma
Gov. Kevin Stitt allowed some businesses to reopen on April 24.
The plan involves three phases, and Stitt cautioned "we will not move to the next phase until the data tells us that it's safe to do so."
Starting on Friday, personal care businesses reopened for appointments.
Restaurants, dining rooms, movie theaters, sporting venues and gyms will reopen the following week, May 1, if they maintain "strict social distancing and sanitation protocols."
Bars, however, will still be closed.
Oregon
Gov. Kate Brown issued an executive order directing Oregonians to stay at home that "remains in effect until ended by the governor." Hospitals, surgical centers, medical offices, and dental offices that meet requirements for Covid-19 safety and preparedness will be able to resume non-urgent procedures on May 1.
Brown announced a joint Western States Pact with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on April 13.
"This is not a light switch going on or off," Brown told CNN's Anderson Cooper on April 14. "This is going to be making a change, testing it, modeling it, seeing whether it works, and then if it does, you can make another change."
Brown said she would not ease restrictions before seeing five components in place: declining growth rate of active cases, sufficient personal protective equipment, surge capacity in hospitals, increased test capacity, contact tracing and isolating positive cases, and strategies to protect vulnerable communities.
Pennsylvania
Gov. Tom Wolf wants to reopen the state in three phases beginning May 8th.
The phases will be broken down into three colors red, yellow and green, and will follow the data, according to Governor Wolf. He had issued stay-at-home orders across the state until April 30.
On April 27, Wolf announced that golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips and privately owned campgrounds could reopen statewide on May 1, provided they follow social distancing guidelines.
“Pennsylvanians have remained resilient throughout this COVID-19 crisis, and as we successfully continue to flatten the curve to protect our physical health, it is critical that we also focus on our physical and mental health during these extraordinary times. As the weather warms and daylight lengthens, enjoying time outdoors is an important way to manage stress,” Wolf said.
Pennsylvania had joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office.
Rhode Island
Gov. Gina Raimondo said if the number of new cases remains flat or declines and people continue to obey the rules of the stay-at-home order that lasts until May 8, she intends to “enter phase one of the reopening on May 9.”
"It's my hope that we will be able to enjoy our parks and beaches in the month of May," Raimondo said. "We'll be reopening them, like everything else, in a staged fashion, slowly, with new restrictions, incrementally, leading up to an eventual complete reopening."
Rhode Island has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from NY Governor Andrew Cuomo's office.
But Raimondo warned that if people rush out and the number of new cases rise, then the stay-at-home order cannot be lifted.
South Carolina
Gov. Henry McMaster announced that at 5 p.m. on April 20, some retail stores will be allowed to open, including those selling furniture, books, music, flowers, clothing and accessories, as well as department stores, sporting goods stores and flea markets. They will be allowed to open at 20% capacity, or 5 people per 1,000 square feet.
Beaches are allowed to reopen to public access beginning April 21 at noon, McMaster said -- though local governments are allowed to keep them closed.
McMaster's "State of Emergency" executive order has been extended to May 12.
South Dakota
Gov. Kristi L. Noem has not issued a stay-at-home order.
"We have seen such an outstanding call to action among the people of South Dakota that we actually have more people staying home than many of the other states that have put in shelter in place orders and have put together directives to tell people they can't leave their homes," she said at a town hall hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting on April 15.
Noem announced on April 13 that South Dakota would be the first state to conduct a hydroxychloroquine trial to test against Covid-19.
Tennessee
Gov. Bill Lee said restaurants will be allowed to open on Monday, April 27, and retail outlets next Wednesday, April 29, at 50% capacity.
"We are working around the clock to get Tennesseans safely back to work in 89 of our counties with the majority of businesses in a position to begin opening their doors next week," Lee said.
Close contact services like salons and barbershops will be allowed to reopen on May 6 in 89 of the state’s 95 counties, Lee announced on April 29.
Texas
Gov. Greg Abbott, who had ordered all Texans to stay home through April 30, announced on April 27 the first phase of the state's plan to safely reopen Texas.
All retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, malls, museums, and libraries are permitted to reopen on Friday, May 1, but must limit their capacity to 25% of their listed occupancy.
“This strategic approach to opening the state of Texas prioritizes the health and safety of our communities and follows the guidelines laid out by our team of medical experts," Abbott said. "Now more than ever, Texans must remain committed to safe distancing practices that reduce the spread of COVID-19, and we must continue to rely on doctors and data to provide us with the safest strategies to restore Texans' livelihoods,” he said.
Utah
Gov. Gary Herbert extended the state's "Stay Safe, Stay Home" directive through May 1. Schools will be closed for the remainder of the year.
Utah has not issued a stay-at-home mandate.
The state will allow restaurants to let customers dine in again “with extreme precaution” starting Friday, May 1. It’s part of the state’s move from high risk to moderate risk status, Herbert said Tuesday, April 28.
Although in-person dining will be allowed as long as social distancing is maintained and the health of employees is monitored, the state still says takeout and delivery are preferable. Similarly, the state will allow gyms to reopen Friday, but says it is recommended that they remain closed.
Personal services businesses like hair salons also can reopen Friday with social distancing, according to the state’s moderate risk guidelines.
Vermont
Gov. Phil Scott issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order that has been extended until May 15.
Scott on April 17 outlined a five-point plan to reopen the state while continuing to fight the spread of the coronavirus during a news conference.
Part of that plan includes certain businesses such as construction, home appraisers, property management and municipal clerks to return to work on April 20, with social distancing measures in place. These businesses will be allowed a maximum of two workers. On May 1, farmers markets will be able to operate with strict social distancing guidelines in place, Scott said.
On April 27, Scott and the state’s health commissioner, Dr. Mark Levine, said that Vermont was not ready to reopen until it meets four main criteria: A sustained reduction in cases for at least 14 days; A healthcare system that is able to treat all patients without exceeding its capacity and without having to resort what are termed, 'crisis standards of care'; The state is able to test all people who have symptoms, and; The state is able to implement and conduct active monitoring of confirmed cases and their contacts.
Addressing reopening businesses, Gov. Scott said that "the more businesses we open up, the more cases we're going to see. I think that's clear," adding that “there's no way to open up without creating opportunities for more transmission.”
“So the balance will be how many new cases we're comfortable having,” he said.
Virginia
Gov. Ralph Northam issued a stay-at-home order effective until June 10.
“We will move forward, but in a way that prioritizes public health and builds public confidence,” Northam said. “Businesses know that customers will return only when they feel that it is safe to do so. Our blueprint for the path forward is data-driven and provides clear guidance, so Virginians will know what to expect and understand how we will decide to when to lift certain public health restrictions.”
Phase one of the “Forward Virginia” blueprint, which includes continued social distancing, teleworking, limits on travel and public gatherings, and recommended use of face covering, will begin no sooner than two weeks from now to allow for a 14-day downward trend in confirmed Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations.
Northam has made it clear that the state must make decisions based on "science, public health expertise, and data," Secretary of Health and Human Resources Daniel Carey said.
Washington
Gov. Jay Inslee extended Washington's stay-at-home order until May 4, saying "We are yet to see the full toll of this virus in our state and the modeling we've seen could be much worse if we don't continue what we're doing to slow the spread."
Most state parks and recreational areas will be reopened in May 5, Inslee said April 27. The state also will allow to people to play golf again, but it will be limited to only two people playing together at a time, except when the players live in the same home. No overnight camping will be allowed on any public land.
Inslee announced a joint Western States Pact with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Oregon Gov. Kate Brown on April 13.
Before deciding on when to reopen the state, Inslee said during an interview with Katy Tur on MSNBC that there would need to be an "enormous expansions" of coronavirus testing capabilities, a way to trace the spread in communities, and "for the president to recognize that these decisions really are going to be made by governors."
West Virginia
The stay-at-home order for West Virginia will be lifted at 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 4 and be replaced with another order Monday, Gov. Jim Justice said April 30.
The new order still encourages people to stay at home but doesn't require it, Justice said.
Further guidance will be issued for areas considered hot spots, according to Justice.
Justice said in a press conference Tuesday, April 28 that his administration plans to reopen local businesses Thursday as previously announced.
Positive test result rate was under 3% (of all tests given) Monday and Tuesday and that was the case Thursday so certain healthcare-related businesses were allowed to ****open.
Those qualifying businesses include pharmacies, chiropractors, dentists, psychologists, physical therapists, social workers and others.
Daycare workers will be tested for the virus beginning this week and will reopen should all working personnel test negative.
All businesses reopening will require personnel to sanitize, physically distance and wear face coverings.
If this week continues on track, more businesses will be permitted to open Monday.
Wisconsin
Gov. Tony Evers has extended his state's stay-at-home order to expire May 26, according to a statement from the governor's office.
On April 23, Evers announced in a news conference that:
"Starting tomorrow (April 24), our public libraries will be able to provide curb site, pick up books and other materials. Arts and crafts stores may offer expanded curbside pickup of materials necessary to make face masks and other personal protective equipment and yes, starting tomorrow, golf courses may open up.”
Wyoming
Gov. Mark Gordon submitted a request asking for a federal disaster declaration for Wyoming on April 9. Wyoming is one of the states without a stay-at-home order.
"Though Wyoming has not reached the dire situations of some states, this declaration will help us to prepare and mobilize resources when we need them," Gordon said in a news release. "I look forward to a swift response to our request from the federal government."
Gordon extended statewide public health orders through April 30 and issued a directive requiring travelers to quarantine for 14 days.
On Tuesday, April 28, the governor said new statewide public health orders will begin May 1. Gyms and personal services business like hair and nail salons will be allowed to reopen under tight restrictions.
