Gov. Holcomb announces plan to reopen the economy
During his daily press conference, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced the plan for reopening Indiana's economy after the stay-at-home order expires at 11:59 p.m. Friday.
He said the reopening is subject to four guiding principles
- COVID patient admissions have decreased the last two weeks.
- State must retain surge capacity of beds and ventilators.
- Test all Hoosiers who are symptomatic - plans to test 100,000 Hoosiers per month
- Contact all individuals who have COVID-19 and expand contact tracing program. (Centralized contract tracing will begin soon)
He said reopening is laid out in a 5-phase road map to have the state open by July 4.
He said the state just finished stage 1 and are beginning Stage 2 on May 4. Stage 3 begins on May 25.
We are just finishing Stage 1 and are ready to move to Stage 2 on May 4. Lake and Marion counties will move to Stage 2 on May 11 and Cass on May 18.
STAGE 2
Stage 2, which begins May 4, includes lifting of restrictions, including the essential travel restriction. Social gatherings will be limited to 25 people, state government offices will be open for limited interaction with the public. The remaining manufacturers considered non-essential can reopen.
People who are over the age of 65 are still encouraged to stay home. Office workers who can work from home are encouraged to continue working from home.
Commercial and retail businesses can open at 50-percent capacity. Shopping malls can open at 50-percent capacity with 25-percent capacity in common areas.
On May 11, food establishments can open at 50-percent capacity, but bar seating will remain closed.
Personal services like hair salons, barber shops and similar businesses can open on May 11 but for appointments only - and while following social distancing guidelines.
Beginning May 8, worship services can resume in all counties subject to social distancing guidelines. Those 65 or older or those with health issues are asked to stay home.
The governor is encouraging virtual and outdoor worship services to continue.
Beginning May 8, worship services can resume in all counties subject to social distancing guidelines. Those 65 or older or those with health issues are asked to stay home.
The governor is encouraging virtual and outdoor worship services to continue.
STAGE 3
If health indicators remain positive, the governor said, Stage 3 will begin May 24. At this stage, at-risk people can venture out cautiously. Those working remotely should continue to do so.
Social gatherings can be expanded to up to 100 people.
Retail stores and malls can operate at 75-percent capacity.
Movie theaters can open at 50-percent capacity. Common areas at malls can now operate at 50-percent capacity.
Playgrounds, tennis courts, campgrounds, gyms and fitness centers can open with restrictions and social distancing.
STAGE 4
Stage 4 begins June 14 and is the final stage. At this point, face coverings will be optional. Social gatherings of up to 250 people will be allowed.
Large venues can open with social distancing.
State government buildings will reopen to the public.
Malls can open at full capacity.
Restaurants can open their dining rooms to 75-percent capacity. Bar seating will reopen at 50-percent capacity.
Zoos, museums, bowling alleys and similar entertainment venues can open at 50-percent capacity.
Recreational sports and leagues may resume. Amusement and water parks may open at 50-percent capacity.
STAGE 5
On July 4, the beginning of Stage 5, fairs, festivals and sporting events can resume.
Retail and restaurants can resume at full capacity.
Restrictions will be lifted at amusement parks, water parks and similar facilities.
At this point, they will decide how to approach the next school year.
Social distancing will continue throughout every stage.
The governor added all of the changes and stages are subject to the four guiding principles, including the number of COVID-19 cases.