Governor Announces Plan To Slowly Start Reopening The State

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine made several announcements yesterday regarding Ohio’s plan to responsibly restart Ohio’s economy during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Beginning May 1, 2020, all medically necessary procedures that do not require an overnight stay in a healthcare facility or do not require inpatient hospital admission and minimizes use of personal protective equipment may move forward. This includes regular doctor visits, well-care checks, well-baby visits, out-patient surgeries, imaging procedures, and diagnostic tests. Dental services and veterinary services may also proceed if a safe environment can be established.

Beginning on May 4, 2020, manufacturing, distribution, and construction businesses may reopen if these businesses can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees. The full Responsible RestartOhio plan for manufacturing, distribution, and construction can be found by clicking here.

Beginning on May 4, 2020, general office environments may reopen if these businesses can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees. The full Responsible RestartOhio plan for general office environments can be found by clicking here.

Beginning on May 12, 2020, consumer, retail and services, may reopen if these businesses can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees. The full Responsible RestartOhio plan for consumer, retail and services can be found by clicking here.

The general safe business practices that all businesses must follow as they reopen are:

• Requiring face coverings for all employees, and recommending them for clients and customers at all times
• Conducting daily health assessments or self-evaluations of employees to determine if they should work
• Maintaining good hygiene at all times such as hand washing and social distancing
• Cleaning and sanitizing workplaces throughout the day and at the close of business or between shifts
• Limiting capacity to meet social distancing guidelines

CONTINUED CLOSURES: 

The following types of establishments are ordered to remain closed due to their increased risk of potential COVID-19 exposure:

• Schools and daycares
• Dine-in restaurants and bars (carry-out is still permitted)
• Personal appearance and beauty businesses
• Older adult daycare serveries and senior centers
• Adult day support or vocational rehabilitation services in group settings
• Entertainment, recreation, and gyms

For greater detail on the types of businesses that must stay closed,  click here.

STAY AT HOME ORDER / LARGE GATHERINGS: 

Because the danger of COVID-19 still exists, Ohio’s Stay at Home order will remain in effect to encourage Ohioans to continue making reasonable, rational decisions about leaving home.

Large gatherings of more than 10 people are still prohibited.

For more information, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov/ResponsibleRestartOhio