Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said Monday some businesses can go ahead and reopen Friday while others, including dine-in restaurants, may do so Monday – but all have to continue following both social distancing and sanitation guidelines implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The announcement garnered mixed reviews.
The state house’s Democratic Caucus on Tuesday requested Kemp “immediately rescind” the order, saying it could “best be summed up as too much, too soon,” and that it put the health of Georgia residents at risk.
In a lengthy statement emailed to media outlets, Kemp said local governments can’t implement lesser or stricter requirements. Local leaders on Tuesday said they will follow the Governor’s mandate.
Kemp said his decision was not “reopening for ‘business as usual.’
“Each of these entities will be subject to specific restrictions, including adherence to minimum basic operations, social distancing, and regular sanitation. Minimum Basic Operations includes, but is not limited to, screening workers for fever and respiratory illness, enhancing workplace sanitation, wearing masks and gloves if appropriate, separating workspaces by at least six feet, teleworking where at all possible, and implementing staggered shifts,” the governor said.
Kemp also encouraged those in bad health and the elderly to continue to shelter in place through May 13, which is when his public health emergency declaration ends. IAmong the highlights from the governor’s update:
The state is increasing its capacity for testing through partnership with various public and private groups.
Elective surgeries can go forward.
The state “will allow gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, barbers, cosmetologists, hair designers, nail care artists, estheticians, their respective schools, and massage therapists to reopen their doors this Friday, April 24, 2020. “
“Subject to specific social distancing and sanitation mandates, theaters, private social clubs, and restaurant dine-in services will be allowed to reopen on Monday, April 27,” according to the governor. “We will release more information in the next few days. Bars, nightclubs, operators of amusement park rides, and live performance venues will remain closed.”
“For places of worship, holding in-person services is allowed, but under Phase One guidelines, it must be done in accordance with strict social distancing protocols. I urge faith leaders to continue to help us in this effort and keep their congregations safe by heeding the advice of public health officials. Of course, online, call-in, or drive-in services remain good options for religious institutions.”
Kemp said his decision to reopen businesses was not “reopening for ‘business as usual.’
“Each of these entities will be subject to specific restrictions, including adherence to Minimum Basic Operations, social distancing, and regular sanitation. Minimum Basic Operations includes, but is not limited to, screening workers for fever and respiratory illness, enhancing workplace sanitation, wearing masks and gloves if appropriate, separating workspaces by at least six feet, teleworking where at all possible, and implementing staggered shifts.
Kemp also encouraged those in bad health and the elderly to continue to shelter in place through May 13, which is when his public health emergency declaration ends.