Oregon reveals phased plan for reopening the state

On Thursday, Oregon Governor Kate Brown announced the phased reopening plan for the Oregon economy.

“These choices are not easy,” said Brown during a press conference on the Oregon Public Health Division YouTube channel. “As we reopen parts of our economy, we know and expect that there may be an uptick in coronavirus cases.”

Over two months since the first case of coronavirus was reported in Oregon, Governor Brown issued a plea to citizens to wear a face mask whenever possible, and to maintain distancing and hygiene practices.

• See also:
  • Oregon Governor Brown announces phased reopening of parks and rec sites
  • What new guidelines mean for the future of US travel
  • Oregon will not start reopening its economy until “at least May 15”: governor

Phase 1 of reopening will require any county wishing to reopen to meet specific state requirements. If regulations are met, the following sectors are eligible:

Restaurants and bars are allowed to open, provided they follow adequate physical distancing, and face masks must be worn by employees. Beauty and personal hygiene businesses will be able to reopen, following similar guidelines. Salons and the like must operate via appointment only (no walk-ins) and are required to keep a record of patrons for potential contact tracing.

Local gatherings will be permitted with a maximum of 25 people.

Phase 1 will last a minimum of 21 days while under monitoring. If said county of Oregon reaches the 21 day mark without an uptick of cases, their situation will be reviewed.

Phase 2 of the reopening plans are in the works and focus on the expansion of Phase 1 gathering restrictions. However, sports, concerts, and large-scale events aren’t going to be returning any time soon.

“Large gatherings, including large sporting events, with audiences, concerts, festivals, and conventions, will not be able to return until we have a reliable treatment or prevention, like a vaccine,” said Brown, adding that any gathering of the sort planned before the end of September 2020, should be canceled, rescheduled, or modified to fit the 25-person maximum.

“I ask that Oregonians come together and be smart,” said Brown. “Please follow the safety measures we’re putting in place to help these businesses reopen.”