Des Moines, Iowa (RI)– Governor Kim Reynolds is removing more pandemic-related restrictions. Casinos, amusement parks and bowling alleys may reopen June 1st — but at 50 percent capacity.
(as said) “In communities across the state, there are signs life is starting to get back to normal,” Reynolds says. “The most welcome one of all is the ‘We’re Open’ sign hanging in the windows of local businesses.”
Last week, Reynolds announced bars, breweries and wineries will be able to reopen Thursday at 50 percent capacity. Tuesday she announced both bars AND restaurants may allow groups of up to 10 to sit together, starting this Thursday. The previous limit had been six at a booth or table. Many of the governor’s sports-related limitations — on practices, games and competitions — are also being lifted on June 1st. There can be spectators, but Reynolds says social distancing guidelines must be followed.
(as said) “Extended families and friends can gather together,” Reynolds says, “but that privilege comes with responsibility of ensuring you’re doing the right thing to protect your health and the health of the people you care about.”
Crowds will be allowed to watch car races, too, starting Monday, June 1st. Outdoor performance venues for events like music concerts may reopen next month — but at half capacity.
(as said) “Many of the other public health measures for businesses that have already reopened will remain in place, and businesses that remain closed will continue to be closed through June 17th,” Reynolds says. “I will continue to evaluate in the coming weeks whether any of these measures should be adjusted further.”
As for whether some closures might be restored, Reynolds says she and her staff will continue to monitor virus activity in the state, to understand the scope of outbreaks.
(as said) “If we see any type of a surge that might impact our ability to take care of Iowans, those with COVID-19 symptoms and those without, then that could potentially be a point where we would have to say: ‘Do we need to take a look at what’s happening here? Do we need to take additional actions?'” Reynolds says, “but for the most part, all of the indicators we’re looking at and monitoring when we look at trends, it’s positive.”
Reynolds is setting up a call with the Iowa State Fair Board this week to discuss their plans for the 2020 State Fair, which is currently scheduled to begin August 13th.
(as said) “I know they’ve been trying to wait to see how Iowa responds to our continuing to open up our economy,” Reynolds says, “and so we’ll have an opportunity to visit with them this week and see if I can answer any questions that they may have and really listen to them and see what they’re considering as they’re moving forward with making a decision.”
Minnesota’s 2020 State Fair was canceled last week. The Missouri State Fair is scheduled to begin on the same day as the Iowa State Fair. Missouri officials say they’ll make an announcement in early to mid-June about what their state fair will look like.
