Alabama Governor Kay Ivey says "It is now time that we move forward & further open our state & live with the new normal of incorporating #COVID19 precautions into our routine." She amended her order, allowing more businesses to open while still maintaining social distancing & taking precautions.
But she said she reserves the right to reverse course if things in Alabama get drastically worse with COVID-19. And she called on each citizen to take personal responsibility-- "we can all do our part."
The state health officer emphasized that with more people out and about, it's more important than ever for people to wear face masks and practice social distancing.
Here's what's changing, as of 5pm Friday May 22nd:
ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES Practice allowed on May 23; competition allowed on June 15; all subject to social-distancing and sanitation rules and guidelines
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS Open subject to social-distancing and sanitation rules and guidelines
CHILD DAY CARE FACILITIES Open subject to social-distancing and sanitation rules and guidelines
SUMMER CAMP Remain open with rules and guidelines available
Several things remain the same as in previous orders, but the one the Governor was most emphatic about was hospitals and nursing homes. Those are still closed to visitors, except for certain compassionate care situations such as maternity, end-of-life, and support for persons with disabilities.
(Photo credit: Getty Images)