Jefferson City, MO - Gov. Mike Parson has released a plan with details of how businesses can begin to reopen in Missouri starting May 4, following weeks of closure aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus.
And while non-essential businesses may resume operations, they must enforce strict 'social distancing' in order to do so.
This reopening plan does not supercede local and municipal restrictions that remain in effect. Both Kansas City, Missouri and Jackson County have stay-at-home orders in place until May 15th.
Parson's statewide stay-at-home order runs through May 3, with businesses beginning the first phase on May 4 and extending through May 31.
"Our plan is deliberate and data-driven with two initial phases intended to protect those most at risk while returning Missouri to a new normal," Parson said. "While we must be prepared for a slow and steady road to recovery, I am confident we will come back stronger than ever before.
ALL Missouri businesses can open on Monday, May 4, under our new Order as long as the guidelines are followed.
— Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) April 27, 2020
More info: https://t.co/rtHHBy5r8q pic.twitter.com/jrEZYVuw8D
"Businesses and employees should work together to implement public health and safety measures for employees and customers," the plan says. "Under these conditions, businesses such as barber and cosmetology shops, hair salons, and tattoo parlors are allowed to operate. Gyms and hotel swimming pools can also open if they adhere to strict social distancing and sanitation protocols."
There will be occupancy limits on restrictions and business, including grocery stores, according to the plan. Workplaces that are engaged in retail sales to the public must limit the number of customers in each retail location to the following standards based on the workplace's fire or building code occupancy:
- For smaller locations (less than 10,000 square feet), they must maintain 25 percent or less of the authorized occupancy.
- For larger locations (10,000 square feet or greater), they must maintain 10 percent or less of the authorized occupancy.
- But the plan does allow restaurants to open their dining rooms, but social distancing will be required.
"In concert with the Missouri Restaurant Association, we are strongly encouraging restaurants to prioritize public health and safety by implementing measures including, but not limited to, regulating self-serve options such as salad bars and buffets, using disposable menus, and employee use of personal protective equipment if available," the plan says.
"Tables and seating shall be spaced out according to social distance requirements. The continued use of drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options is encouraged."
Places of worship will also be allowed to open and have in-person services, if social distancing requirements are followed. The state will also allow schools to return for summer sessions, movies and events at large venues or stadiums will also be allowed if social distancing requirements are met.
But the plan does outline major restrictions and on nursing homes and assisted living communities.
"In accordance with the guidelines from the president, the CDC, and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, people shall not visit nursing homes, long-term care facilities, retirement homes, or assisted living homes unless to provide critical assistance or in end-of-life circumstances," the plan says. "Elderly or otherwise vulnerable populations should take enhanced precautionary measures to mitigate the risks of contracting COVID-19."
