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President Trump announced the release of guidelines for reopening the economy at a press briefing on Thursday. It’s a three-stage plan for reopening businesses and easing restrictions made necessary by the coronavirus outbreak. There is no specific timeline, as the president said it’s up to the governors to make the final call for their states.
“We are not opening all at once, but one careful step at a time. And some states will be able to open up sooner than others,” Trump said.
"There are businesses, located in areas with very few COVID-19 cases, that both rely on a low-risk workforce and can comply with CDC social distancing guidelines," he said.
Carper, a Democrat, released a statement saying more needs to be done to make sure people are safe.
"The most important thing right now is that we’re guided by science and heeding the advice of experts,” Carper said. “We know that we can’t reopen our economy until we have the public health crisis under control. And effective widespread testing and the ability to track this virus is going to be key to that effort.”
According to the guidelines, getting to the first phase is contingent on the rate of infection going down, hospitals having capacity to treat patients and healthcare workers being tested.
If that’s all satisfied, there’s the first phase. Gyms, theaters, restaurants, stores and churches can reopen with strict social distancing. Bars would still be closed, however. Working from home would still be encouraged, and there could be no social gatherings of 10 or more. Some elective surgeries can pick up again.
Phase Two: Schools and daycares can reopen. Non-essential travel is okay and bars can open again but with social distancing. Gatherings of more than 50 people, where appropriate distancing isn’t practical, shouldn’t take place unless precautions are in place.
And finally, the Phase Three: Restrictions would be lifted on visiting nursing homes and hospitals. Workplaces can open up again. Limited distancing at public places, including sporting events.
Those who are vulnerable can go out and interact with people but with safe distancing.
Now, in all three phases, officials still encourage Hand washing, disinfecting and staying home if you’re sick.
And, even in the third phase, face masks are still encouraged, especially on mass transit.
The White House says officials discussed additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program with the congressional group, along with small-business relief, supply chains, surprise medical billing, mental health, and clarity on the difference between essential and non-essential workers.