Baker releases plan to reopen Massachusetts — but it’s not back to business for everyone
Massachusetts is cautiously allowing some businesses to reopen as Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday announced a three-phase plan for the state to get somewhat back to normal while still protecting the public from COVID-19.
“The toll this virus takes and continues to take on many of us is staggering, but the response, the fight, the millions of people who are doing what they have to do to push back, has been brave and bigger,“ Baker said. “We are going to ask people once again to rise to the occasion as we continue to fight this virus.”
Beginning immediately, based on current public health data and trends, Massachusetts will begin Phase 1 of a cautious reopening, and workplaces that are permitted to open are required to follow new safety protocols and guidance.
Manufacturing facilities and construction sites will be able to open immediately with applicable guidelines. Places of worship will be able to open with guidelines that require social distancing and encourage services to be held outdoors.
Hospitals and community health centers that attest to specific public health and safety standards can begin to provide high priority preventative care, pediatric care and treatment for high risk patients.
Under a staggered approach, additional Phase 1 sectors of the economy will be permitted to open effective May 25 including:
- Lab space;
- Office space;
- Limited personal services, including: hair salons, pet grooming, car washes;
- Retail: remote fulfilment and curbside pick-up;
Also permitted to open on May 25 with applicable guidelines, are the following:
- Beaches;
- Parks;
- Drive-in movie theaters;
- Select athletic fields and courts;
- Many outdoor adventure activities;
- Most fishing, hunting, and boating;
- Outdoor gardens, zoos, reserves, and public installations.
Businesses are not required to reopen, and may not do so if they are unable to follow safety protocols.
The Administration also released a new “Safer At Home” Advisory, which instructs residents to stay at home unless engaging with newly opened activities, as a way to continue limiting the spread of COVID-19. Masks are still required in public, gatherings are limited to 10 people and people over the age of 65 or have underlying health conditions are still urged to stay home.
“It bears repeating that Massachusetts has been one of the hardest-hit states in our country, right behind New York and New Jersey, and we must be cautious and vigilant as we reopen,” Lt. Gov. Karen Polito said.
Like Grafton Common? Help support us on Ko-fi.
