Dear Neighbors,
Yesterday, the governor announced Phase 3 of his plan for reopening the economy. The new order goes into effect on June 10th and updated guidelines will allow indoor dining to open at 50% capacity, with safety measures like masks and social distancing. Salons and personal services will increase to 50% capacity as well, with all the same safety measures they are currently using.
New openings will include pools opening at 50% capacity, fitness centers and theaters at 25% capacity up to 250 people, and churches at 50% capacity or up to 250 people. Additionally, Phase 3 includes social gatherings of 25 people or less.
More information on these new guidelines can be found here.
While this is another step in the right direction, I am concerned it does not go far enough. Countless states around the nation having reopened their economies with little to no increase in infection rates or deaths—Wisconsin included. Instead of keeping businesses closed or severely reduced, we need to focus our efforts on protecting our nursing homes and long-term care facilities (where 80% of all deaths in Minnesota have occurred) so we can begin the process of rebuilding our economy.
Have a good weekend,
John