Governor Brian Kemp has extended Georgia’s public health state of emergency through July 12 while simultaneously easing restrictions to reopen bars and allow socially-distanced gatherings of 25 people or more.
During a briefing at the State Capitol on Thursday (May 28), Kemp said he was extending the State of Emergency for a third time through 11:59 PM on July 12, 2020. Calling the declaration “critically important” in Georgia’s battle against COVID-19, Kemp said it will allow public/private healthcare partnerships to continue and help the state procure supplies. “As we continue to take measured steps forward, the Public Health State of Emergency provides flexibility for a cohesive response across government and within communities across Georgia,” he said.
The state’s shelter in place order for those who are 65 and older or medically fragile will continue through June 12.
What’s opening, what’s not
Kemp signed an executive order Thursday that extends public safety precautions, expands public gatherings, and paves the way for more businesses, including bars and sports teams, to resume operations.
“We continue to strongly encourage all Georgians and visitors to wear face coverings in public to mitigate viral spread, and restrictions remain intact for nearly every Georgia business to keep employees and customers safe,” Kemp said.
The governor pointed to “favorable data” in announcing his decision to expand public gatherings. Starting June 1, Georgians may gather in groups of 25 or more in a single location if they’re at least six feet apart. “Small weddings, recreational sports, and similar events will be able to resume with a little more flexibility, but we are asking everyone to stay vigilant,” Kemp said. He urged Georgians who attend such events to “Wash your hands, keep your distance, wear a mask if possible, and protect the elderly and medically fragile from exposure.”
On May 31, overnight summer camps may open in Georgia if they meet specific criteria. Bars and nightclubs may reopen beginning June 1. Amusement rides, water parks, and carnivals may resume operating on June 12. Live performance venues will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
Returning to campus and church
School campuses across the state will welcome back students for the first time in over two months when in-person summer school instruction begins in June. Schools and districts can hold summer school for students if they comply with eleven mandatory criteria. That includes screening workers and students for illness to prevent viral spread, enhancing campus sanitation, encouraging regular handwashing and hygiene, and keeping students separated to minimize exposure.
“We know how important it is for some students to be able to return to campus for in-person instruction, and these measures will accomplish that goal without compromising safety,” Kemp said.
The governor also addressed Georgians who are returning to their houses of worship. While the state never closed worship centers, state leaders did encourage congregations to hold online or drive-in services to mitigate the risk of exposure. Now that many churches and religious institutions are beginning to reopen their doors for traditional services, Kemp urged congregants to continue to heed public health advice to protect themselves and others.
