WASHINGTON DC (CLARKSVILLENOW) – President Donald Trump announced yesterday his plan to “Open America Again”. The three-phased approach is a suggestion for governors across the country who are exploring ways to safely re-open businesses in their state.

The guideline recommends that individuals continue to practice good hygiene. Washing hands with soap and water, disinfect surfaces, avoid touching your face.

It also says to “strongly consider using face coverings while in public, and particularly when using mass transit.”

For employers, the guidelines encourage all businesses to implement appropriate policies and industry best practices. Employers are expected to have a plan for social distancing, temperature checks, contract tracing, sanitation, and travel.

PHASE ONE

This would begin after a state sees 14 days of a decline in COVID-19 cases, as well as meets essential criteria.

Vulnerable individuals stay home.

No groups of 10 or more in public places.

Minimize non-essential travel.

Work from home when possible, or return to work in phases.

Recommended to stay closed: Schools and youth activities, senior living facilities, large venues (movie theaters, sporting venues), elective surgeries, gyms, bars.

PHASE TWO

This would begin roughly a month after a state sees a continued decline in COVID-19 cases (no rebound), as well as meets essential criteria.

Vulnerable individuals continue to stay home.

No groups of 50 or more in public places.

Non-essential travel can resume.

Work from home when feasible in business operations.

Schools and organized youth activities (i.e. summer camps) can reopen.

Visits to senior care facilities and hospitals still prohibited.

Large venues (churches, restaurants, movie theaters) reopen.

Elective surgeries can resume, as clinically appropriate.

Gyms maintaining social distancing can reopen.

Bars can operate with diminished occupancy capacity.

PHASE THREE

Approximately six weeks after a state sees a continued decline in COVID-19 cases (no rebounds), as well as meets essential criteria.

Vulnerable individuals may now resume public interactions, while practicing social distancing.

Low risk populations should consider minimizing time spent in crowded environments.

Employers can implement normal working operations, no longer requiring telecommuting.

Visits to senior care facilities and hospitals resume.

Large venues, bars, and gyms, can operate as normal while maintaining high sanitation standards and limited physical distancing.

For the whole document visit the White House website.